CVE-2018-21171 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

An authenticated user can cause a stack-based buffer overflow on specific NETGEAR devices including D6100, R7800, R9000, WNDR3700v4, and WNDR4300.

Understanding CVE-2018-21171

This CVE involves a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in certain NETGEAR devices.

What is CVE-2018-21171?

CVE-2018-21171 allows an authenticated user to trigger a stack-based buffer overflow on specific NETGEAR devices.

The Impact of CVE-2018-21171

CVSS Base Score: 6.8 (Medium)
Attack Vector: Adjacent Network
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: High

Technical Details of CVE-2018-21171

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows an authenticated user to execute a stack-based buffer overflow on affected NETGEAR devices.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following devices are impacted:

D6100 (before version 1.0.0.57)
R7800 (before version 1.0.2.40)
R9000 (before version 1.0.3.6)
WNDR3700v4 (before version 1.0.2.92)
WNDR4300 (before version 1.0.2.98)

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an authenticated user to trigger a stack-based buffer overflow on the affected devices.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-21171 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by NETGEAR for the affected devices.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update firmware and software to the latest versions.
Implement strong authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all NETGEAR devices are updated with the latest firmware and security patches.