CVE-2018-21179 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2018-21179, a critical stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in certain NETGEAR devices, allowing authenticated users to execute malicious code. Find out about affected systems, impacts, and mitigation steps.
A stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in certain NETGEAR devices allows authenticated users to exploit the system. This affects various models including D6100, D7800, R7500, R7500v2, R7800, R9000, WNDR3700v4, WNDR4300, WNDR4300v2, WNDR4500v3, and WNR2000v5.
Understanding CVE-2018-21179
This CVE involves a critical vulnerability in NETGEAR devices that could lead to unauthorized access and system compromise.
What is CVE-2018-21179?
CVE-2018-21179 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability found in specific NETGEAR devices, allowing authenticated users to execute malicious code.
The Impact of CVE-2018-21179
The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 6.8 (Medium severity) with high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected devices.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-21179
This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability is a stack-based buffer overflow in certain NETGEAR devices, enabling authenticated users to trigger the exploit.
Affected Systems and Versions
The following NETGEAR devices are affected:
- D6100 (versions before 1.0.0.57)
- D7800 (versions before 1.0.1.30)
- R7500 (versions before 1.0.0.122)
- R7500v2 (versions before 1.0.3.24)
- R7800 (versions before 1.0.2.40)
- R9000 (versions before 1.0.2.52)
- WNDR3700v4 (versions before 1.0.2.92)
- WNDR4300 (versions before 1.0.2.94)
- WNDR4300v2 (versions before 1.0.0.50)
- WNDR4500v3 (versions before 1.0.0.50)
- WNR2000v5 (versions before 1.0.0.62)
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by authenticated users to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to unauthorized access and system compromise.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2018-21179 is crucial to prevent security breaches.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update affected devices to the latest firmware versions provided by NETGEAR.
- Implement strong authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor for security advisories and updates from NETGEAR.
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Apply patches and updates released by NETGEAR promptly to mitigate the CVE-2018-21179 vulnerability.