External risk intelligence

ASUS RT-AX55 Router Command Injection Vulnerability

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2023-39780

Certain ASUS RT-AX55 devices are vulnerable to OS command injection, allowing authenticated attackers to execute commands. This could lead to unauthorized access and control of affected devices, impacting network operations and data integrity. The risk is significant due to the potential for widespread compromise.

4Halo Surface Signal

OS Command Injection

Asus Rt Ax55 Firmware

3.0.0.4.386.51598

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2023-39780

The vulnerability affects a consumer router, a device typically deployed as an internet-facing gateway. While the vulnerability requires authentication, the management interfaces of such devices are frequently accessible from the internet, making the attack surface commonly exposed in real-world deployments.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

Certain ASUS RT-AX55 devices are vulnerable due to a flaw in how they handle specific data inputs. This weakness allows authenticated attackers to inject and execute operating system commands. Such an event could lead to unauthorized access and control over the affected devices, potentially impacting network operations and data integrity.

  • Vulnerable ASUS RT-AX55 devices
  • Flaw allows OS command injection
  • Impact creates business risk

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

An authenticated attacker could exploit a vulnerability in ASUS RT-AX55 devices. This could allow them to inject operating system commands into the device. Such an action might lead to unauthorized access and control over the affected systems.

  • Requires authenticated access.
  • Attacker targets a specific parameter.
  • Results in OS command injection.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability presents a significant risk to organizations utilizing ASUS RT-AX55 routers. An attacker with existing access to the router's administrative interface could inject malicious commands, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, system modification, or complete control of the affected device. The widespread use of such devices in business environments amplifies the potential impact.

  • Attacker skill level: Low to moderate
  • Required access or conditions: Authenticated access to router
  • Business risk or urgency: High; urgent remediation recommended

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers to inject and execute operating system commands on affected ASUS RT-AX55 devices. Exploitation can lead to unauthorized command execution, potentially impacting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems and data. The risk of exploitation is significant given the potential for widespread impact on network devices.

  • Identify ASUS RT-AX55 devices.
  • Isolate or restrict access to affected devices.
  • Apply vendor updates and validate.
  • Monitor for related malicious activity.

Frequently asked questions

What is the ASUS RT-AX55 router and its primary function?

The ASUS RT-AX55 is a wireless router. Routers are essential networking devices that connect multiple devices within a local network and provide access to the internet, managing the flow of data for homes and businesses.

What is the nature of the vulnerability in CVE-2023-39780?

CVE-2023-39780 is an OS command injection vulnerability. This weakness allows an attacker to trick the device into executing unintended commands, which could compromise its security and functionality.

How can an attacker exploit the CVE-2023-39780 vulnerability on ASUS RT-AX55 devices?

An attacker must first gain authenticated access to the router's administrative interface. They can then exploit the vulnerability by manipulating the '/start_apply.htm' parameter, specifically 'qos_bw_rulelist', to inject and execute commands.

What is the significance of CVE-2023-39780 affecting ASUS RT-AX55 routers?

This vulnerability poses a significant risk as it allows authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the router. Given that routers often act as gateways, such an exploit could lead to unauthorized access to the network, data breaches, or system control.

What steps should be taken to address the CVE-2023-39780 vulnerability?

Organizations should identify all ASUS RT-AX55 devices, restrict access to their administrative interfaces, and apply any available firmware updates from the vendor. Continuous monitoring for unusual network activity is also recommended.

References