CVE-2017-8841 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Peplink Balance devices with specific firmware versions are vulnerable to arbitrary file deletion through path traversal.

Understanding CVE-2017-8841

Peplink Balance devices with outdated firmware versions are at risk of arbitrary file deletion due to a path traversal vulnerability.

What is CVE-2017-8841?

CVE-2017-8841 is a vulnerability that affects Peplink Balance 305, 380, 580, 710, 1350, and 2500 devices with firmware versions earlier than fw-b305hw2_380hw6_580hw2_710hw3_1350hw2_2500-7.0.1-build2093. The vulnerability allows attackers to delete files through absolute path traversal in the firmware_process.cgi file.

The Impact of CVE-2017-8841

This vulnerability could lead to unauthorized deletion of critical files on affected Peplink Balance devices, potentially disrupting operations and compromising data integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-8841

Peplink Balance devices with outdated firmware versions are susceptible to arbitrary file deletion through a specific exploitation method.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from absolute path traversal in the cgi-bin/MANGA/firmware_process.cgi file using the upfile.path parameter, allowing attackers to delete files.

Affected Systems and Versions

Peplink Balance 305, 380, 580, 710, 1350, and 2500 devices
Firmware versions earlier than fw-b305hw2_380hw6_580hw2_710hw3_1350hw2_2500-7.0.1-build2093

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by manipulating the upfile.path parameter in the firmware_process.cgi file, enabling them to traverse absolute paths and delete files.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard against CVE-2017-8841, immediate actions and long-term security practices are essential.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Peplink Balance devices to the latest firmware version that addresses the vulnerability.
Monitor file deletion activities and investigate any suspicious behavior.
Implement access controls to restrict unauthorized file deletions.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.
Educate users and administrators on secure file management practices to prevent unauthorized deletions.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for firmware updates and security patches from Peplink.
Apply patches promptly to ensure devices are protected against known vulnerabilities.