CVE-2017-6549 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2017-6549, a session hijacking vulnerability in ASUS routers that allows remote attackers to steal active admin sessions. Find out affected systems, exploitation details, and mitigation steps.
A vulnerability in session hijacking has been identified in httpd on various models of ASUS routers, potentially allowing remote attackers to steal active admin sessions.
Understanding CVE-2017-6549
This CVE involves a session hijack vulnerability in ASUS routers, enabling attackers to remotely steal active admin sessions.
What is CVE-2017-6549?
The vulnerability allows attackers to exploit certain HTTP headers to hijack sessions on affected ASUS router models and firmware versions.
The Impact of CVE-2017-6549
The vulnerability poses a significant risk as it enables unauthorized access to admin sessions on vulnerable ASUS routers, compromising network security.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-6549
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in httpd affects multiple ASUS router models and specific firmware versions, allowing attackers to steal active admin sessions remotely.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected ASUS router models include RT-N56U, RT-N66U, RT-AC66U, RT-N66R, RT-AC66R, RT-AC68U, RT-AC68R, RT-N66W, RT-AC66W, RT-AC87R, RT-AC87U, RT-AC51U, RT-AC68P, RT-N11P, RT-N12+, RT-N12E B1, RT-AC3200, RT-AC53U, RT-AC1750, RT-AC1900P, RT-N300, and RT-AC750.
- Vulnerable firmware versions are before 3.0.0.4.380.7378 for most models, before 3.0.0.4.380.7266 for RT-AC68W, and before 3.0.0.4.380.9488 for RT-N600, RT-N12+ B1, RT-N11P B1, RT-N12VP B1, RT-N12E C1, RT-N300 B1, and RT-N12+ Pro.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by sending specific HTTP headers containing 'cgi_logout' and 'asusrouter-Windows-IFTTT-1.0', allowing them to steal active admin sessions remotely.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting against CVE-2017-6549 involves taking immediate and long-term security measures.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update affected ASUS routers to patched firmware versions.
- Monitor network activity for any signs of unauthorized access.
- Implement strong password policies for admin accounts.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update router firmware to address security vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security audits to identify and mitigate potential risks.
Patching and Updates
- ASUS released firmware updates to address the vulnerability; ensure routers are updated to versions that patch the session hijacking issue.