CVE-2018-21215 : What You Need to Know

Multiple models of NETGEAR devices are susceptible to a buffer overflow vulnerability when targeted by an unauthorized individual. This vulnerability affects various models including D3600, D6000, D6100, EX2700, R7500v2, R9000, WN2000RPTv3, WN3000RPv3, and WN3100RPv2.

Understanding CVE-2018-21215

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

What is CVE-2018-21215?

CVE-2018-21215 is a security vulnerability that allows unauthorized individuals to trigger a buffer overflow on specific NETGEAR device models.

The Impact of CVE-2018-21215

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 devices.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-21215

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in NETGEAR devices allows an adjacent network attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service via a crafted request.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following NETGEAR device models are affected:

D3600 (version prior to 1.0.0.67)
D6000 (version prior to 1.0.0.67)
D6100 (version prior to 1.0.0.56)
EX2700 (version prior to 1.0.1.28)
R7500v2 (version prior to 1.0.3.24)
R9000 (version prior to 1.0.2.52)
WN2000RPTv3 (version prior to 1.0.1.20)
WN3000RPv3 (version prior to 1.0.2.50)
WN3100RPv2 (version prior to 1.0.0.56)

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker with network access to the affected devices, allowing them to execute malicious code or disrupt device operations.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting against CVE-2018-21215 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

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

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update firmware and security patches on all network devices.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.
Educate users on best practices for network security.

Patching and Updates

NETGEAR has released patches for the affected device models. Ensure timely installation of these patches to mitigate the vulnerability.