CVE-2018-21111 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Authenticated users can exploit a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability affecting certain NETGEAR devices including models like D3600, D6000, D6100, R7800, R8900, R9000, WNDR3700v4, WNDR4300, WNDR4300v2, WNDR4500v3, and WNR2000v5.

Understanding CVE-2018-21111

This CVE involves a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in specific NETGEAR devices, potentially allowing authenticated users to execute malicious activities.

What is CVE-2018-21111?

The CVE-2018-21111 vulnerability enables authenticated users to trigger a stack-based buffer overflow on certain NETGEAR devices, leading to potential security breaches.

The Impact of CVE-2018-21111

The vulnerability poses a medium severity risk with a CVSS base score of 6.8. Its impact includes high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts, requiring high privileges for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-21111

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is a stack-based buffer overflow that can be exploited by authenticated users on specific NETGEAR devices.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following NETGEAR models are affected:

D3600 (versions before 1.0.0.75)
D6000 (versions before 1.0.0.75)
D6100 (versions before 1.0.0.60)
R7800 (versions before 1.0.2.52)
R8900 (versions before 1.0.4.2)
R9000 (versions before 1.0.4.2)
WNDR3700v4 (versions before 1.0.2.102)
WNDR4300 (versions before 1.0.2.104)
WNDR4300v2 (versions before 1.0.0.58)
WNDR4500v3 (versions before 1.0.0.58)
WNR2000v5 (versions before 1.0.0.66)

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by authenticated users through a stack-based buffer overflow on the affected NETGEAR devices.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-21111 is crucial to maintaining security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update affected devices to the latest firmware versions provided by NETGEAR.
Implement strong authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all network devices to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
Conduct security audits and assessments to identify and address any security gaps.

Patching and Updates

NETGEAR releases patches and firmware updates to address CVE-2018-21111. Ensure timely installation of these updates to safeguard your devices.