CVE-2017-16958 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2017-16958, a vulnerability in TP-Link TL-WVR, TL-WAR, TL-ER, and TL-R devices allowing authenticated remote users to execute arbitrary commands. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures.
This CVE involves a vulnerability in TP-Link TL-WVR, TL-WAR, TL-ER, and TL-R devices that allows authenticated remote users to execute arbitrary commands.
Understanding CVE-2017-16958
This vulnerability enables authenticated remote users to execute arbitrary commands on affected TP-Link devices.
What is CVE-2017-16958?
The TP-Link TL-WVR, TL-WAR, TL-ER, and TL-R devices have a vulnerability that allows authenticated remote users to run arbitrary commands by using shell metacharacters in the t_bindif field of an admin/bridge command to cgi-bin/luci. The issue is associated with the get_device_byif function in /usr/lib/lua/luci/controller/admin/bridge.lua in uhttpd.
The Impact of CVE-2017-16958
This vulnerability can be exploited by authenticated remote users to execute arbitrary commands on the affected TP-Link devices, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control of the devices.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-16958
This section provides technical details of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows authenticated remote users to execute arbitrary commands by utilizing shell metacharacters in the t_bindif field of an admin/bridge command to cgi-bin/luci, specifically related to the get_device_byif function in /usr/lib/lua/luci/controller/admin/bridge.lua in uhttpd.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: TP-Link TL-WVR, TL-WAR, TL-ER, and TL-R devices
- Version: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is exploited by authenticated remote users inserting shell metacharacters in the t_bindif field of an admin/bridge command to cgi-bin/luci, leveraging the get_device_byif function in /usr/lib/lua/luci/controller/admin/bridge.lua in uhttpd.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting against and addressing the CVE-2017-16958 vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by TP-Link to address the vulnerability.
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity that may indicate exploitation of the vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update firmware and software on TP-Link devices to mitigate potential security risks.
- Implement strong authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access to the devices.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all TP-Link TL-WVR, TL-WAR, TL-ER, and TL-R devices are updated with the latest security patches to remediate the vulnerability.