CVE-2017-11344 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A global buffer overflow vulnerability has been discovered in the networkmap feature of Asuswrt-Merlin firmware for ASUS devices, as well as ASUS firmware for various models including RT-AC5300, RT-AC1900P, RT-AC68U, and more.

Understanding CVE-2017-11344

This CVE involves a critical buffer overflow vulnerability in ASUS firmware that could allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected routers.

What is CVE-2017-11344?

The vulnerability in the networkmap feature of Asuswrt-Merlin firmware and ASUS firmware for multiple models enables attackers to write shellcode in the heap, leading to the execution of malicious code on the router.

The Impact of CVE-2017-11344

Exploiting this vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected router by hosting a specially crafted device description XML document at a specific URL.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-11344

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The global buffer overflow in the networkmap feature of Asuswrt-Merlin firmware and ASUS firmware for various models allows attackers to write shellcode at any location in the heap, facilitating the execution of arbitrary code on the router.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following ASUS router models are affected by this vulnerability:

RT-AC5300
RT-AC1900P
RT-AC68U
RT-AC68P
RT-AC88U
RT-AC66U
RT-AC66U_B1
RT-AC58U
RT-AC56U
RT-AC55U
RT-AC52U
RT-AC51U
RT-N18U
RT-N66U
RT-N56U
RT-AC3200
RT-AC3100
RT_AC1200GU
RT_AC1200G
RT-AC1200
RT-AC53
RT-N12HP
RT-N12HP_B1
RT-N12D1
RT-N12+
RT_N12+_PRO
RT-N16
RT-N300

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by hosting a specially crafted device description XML document at a URL specified within a Location header in an SSDP response.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting your systems from CVE-2017-11344 is crucial to prevent unauthorized access and potential attacks.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable remote access to the router administration interface if not required.
Regularly monitor ASUS security advisories for patches and updates.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement network segmentation to isolate critical devices from potential threats.
Use strong, unique passwords for router administration and Wi-Fi access.

Patching and Updates

Apply firmware updates provided by ASUS to address the vulnerability and enhance router security.