CVE-2018-21213 : Security Advisory and Response

An unauthenticated attacker can take advantage of a buffer overflow vulnerability found in certain NETGEAR devices. This vulnerability affects various models including D3600, D6000, D7800, R6100, R7500, R7500v2, R7800, R9000, WNDR3700v4, WNDR4300, WNDR4300v2, and WNDR4500v3.

Understanding CVE-2018-21213

This CVE involves a buffer overflow vulnerability in specific NETGEAR devices, potentially exploited by an unauthenticated attacker.

What is CVE-2018-21213?

CVE-2018-21213 is a security vulnerability that allows unauthenticated attackers to exploit a buffer overflow in certain NETGEAR devices.

The Impact of CVE-2018-21213

The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.0 base score of 8.8, indicating a high severity level with significant impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-21213

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability involves a buffer overflow that can be triggered by an unauthenticated attacker on specific NETGEAR device models.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following NETGEAR models are affected by this vulnerability:

D3600 (before version 1.0.0.67)
D6000 (before version 1.0.0.67)
D7800 (before version 1.0.1.30)
R6100 (before version 1.0.1.20)
R7500 (before version 1.0.0.118)
R7500v2 (before version 1.0.3.24)
R7800 (before version 1.0.2.40)
R9000 (before version 1.0.2.52)
WNDR3700v4 (before version 1.0.2.96)
WNDR4300 (before version 1.0.2.98)
WNDR4300v2 (before version 1.0.0.50)
WNDR4500v3 (before version 1.0.0.50)

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an unauthenticated attacker through a buffer overflow, potentially leading to unauthorized access and system compromise.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-21213 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the firmware of affected NETGEAR devices to the latest patched versions.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all network devices and systems.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.
Educate users and administrators about cybersecurity best practices.
Consider implementing intrusion detection and prevention systems.
Stay informed about security advisories and updates from NETGEAR.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and firmware updates provided by NETGEAR to address the CVE-2018-21213 vulnerability.