External risk intelligence

TP-Link Router Command Injection Vulnerability.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2023-33538

A command injection vulnerability has been identified in certain TP-Link router models. This flaw could allow unauthorized execution of commands on affected devices, potentially impacting network integrity and data. Organizations are advised to identify and address vulnerable systems.

4Halo Surface Signal

Command Injection

Tp Link Tl Wr940n Firmware

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2023-33538

This vulnerability affects residential and small office routers, which are network appliances designed to interface between internal networks and the public internet. While the specific component often requires local network access, these devices are commonly deployed as the primary edge gateway, making their management interfaces potentially accessible via wide area network configurations.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

The identified vulnerability affects specific TP-Link router models. The core issue is a command injection flaw within the network component. This weakness can allow an attacker to execute unauthorized commands on the affected devices.

  • Vulnerable TP-Link router components
  • Command injection flaw
  • Unauthorized command execution

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability allows an attacker to inject and execute arbitrary commands on affected devices. The attack targets specific network devices, potentially impacting their operational integrity and the data they process. This could lead to unauthorized access, data manipulation, or disruption of network services.

  • Network access is required.
  • Unauthenticated attacker gains access.
  • Commands are injected, gaining control.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability presents a significant risk due to its potential for attackers to inject commands into affected TP-Link devices, leading to unauthorized system control. The ease of exploitation combined with the critical nature of network devices elevates the threat level. Organizations using these devices face potential data compromise and disruption of network services.

  • Attackers with low skill level.
  • Network access required.
  • High business risk and urgency.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability presents a significant risk to affected organizations due to potential command injection. Threat actors could exploit this to gain unauthorized control over network devices, impacting system integrity and data confidentiality. Prompt action is necessary to identify vulnerable assets, mitigate exposure, and ensure that security fixes are properly implemented and validated. Continuous monitoring is also essential to detect any residual or related malicious activity.

  • Find affected TP-Link routers.
  • Isolate or disconnect exposed devices.
  • Apply vendor fixes and verify.
  • Monitor for suspicious activity.

Frequently asked questions

What is the command injection vulnerability in TP-Link routers?

A command injection vulnerability has been discovered in specific TP-Link router models, including TL-WR940N V2/V4, TL-WR841N V8/V10, and TL-WR740N V1/V2. This flaw exists in the /userRpm/WlanNetworkRpm component, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the affected devices.

How does the command injection weakness manifest in TP-Link devices?

The weakness is a CWE-77 vulnerability, which refers to the improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command. This allows an attacker to inject and execute commands on the affected TP-Link routers, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control.

What is the attack path for this TP-Link vulnerability?

An unauthenticated attacker with network access can exploit this vulnerability. By targeting the /userRpm/WlanNetworkRpm component, they can inject commands, bypassing security measures and gaining control of the device.

How relevant is the CVE-2023-33538 vulnerability affecting TP-Link routers?

This vulnerability is highly relevant as it affects network edge devices like routers, which are critical for network security. Its inclusion on the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog and a high EPSS score of 0.9057 indicate active exploitation and significant risk.

What are the recommended steps to address the TP-Link command injection vulnerability?

To address this vulnerability, organizations should identify all affected TP-Link routers, disconnect or isolate any exposed devices, and apply vendor-provided security fixes. Continuous monitoring for suspicious activity is also advised. For end-of-life or end-of-service products, discontinuing use is recommended.

References