CVE-2018-21133 : Security Advisory and Response

An unauthenticated attacker can exploit a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in specific NETGEAR devices, impacting WAC505 versions prior to 5.0.0.17 and WAC510 versions prior to 5.0.0.17.

Understanding CVE-2018-21133

This CVE involves a critical vulnerability in NETGEAR devices that could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code.

What is CVE-2018-21133?

The CVE-2018-21133 vulnerability is a stack-based buffer overflow issue that can be exploited by an unauthenticated attacker on certain NETGEAR devices.

The Impact of CVE-2018-21133

CVSS Base Score: 8.8 (High)
Attack Vector: Adjacent Network
Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: None
This vulnerability poses a significant risk to the affected devices and can lead to unauthorized code execution.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-21133

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability involves a stack-based buffer overflow that can be triggered by an unauthenticated attacker.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Systems: Specific NETGEAR devices
Vulnerable Versions:
WAC505 versions prior to 5.0.0.17
WAC510 versions prior to 5.0.0.17

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by sending specially crafted requests to the affected devices, leading to a stack-based buffer overflow.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by NETGEAR to mitigate the vulnerability.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update firmware and software on all network devices.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from NETGEAR and promptly apply patches to secure the devices.