CVE-2018-21177 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability affecting specific models of NETGEAR devices.

Understanding CVE-2018-21177

What is CVE-2018-21177?

The issue impacts certain NETGEAR devices when an authenticated user triggers a stack-based buffer overflow. Affected models include D6100, R6100, R7800, R9000, WNDR3700v4, WNDR4300, WNDR4300v2, WNDR4500v3, and WNR2000v5.

The Impact of CVE-2018-21177

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 6.8, with high impacts on availability, confidentiality, and integrity. Privileged access is required for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-21177

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a stack-based buffer overflow triggered by an authenticated user on specific NETGEAR device models.

Affected Systems and Versions

D6100 (version prior to 1.0.0.57)
R6100 (version prior to 1.0.1.20)
R7800 (version prior to 1.0.2.40)
R9000 (version prior to 1.0.2.52)
WNDR3700v4 (version prior to 1.0.2.92)
WNDR4300 (version prior to 1.0.2.94)
WNDR4300v2 (version prior to 1.0.0.50)
WNDR4500v3 (version prior to 1.0.0.50)
WNR2000v5 (version prior to 1.0.0.62)

Exploitation Mechanism

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

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update affected devices to the latest firmware versions.
Restrict network access to trusted users only.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update firmware and security patches.
Implement strong password policies and multi-factor authentication.
Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing.
Educate users on safe browsing habits and security best practices.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by NETGEAR to address the stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability.