CVE-2019-20659 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability in specific NETGEAR devices allows an authenticated user to execute command injection, affecting multiple router models.

Understanding CVE-2019-20659

What is CVE-2019-20659?

Certain NETGEAR routers are susceptible to command injection by authenticated users, impacting various versions of R6400v2, R6700, R6700v3, R6900, and R7900.

The Impact of CVE-2019-20659

The vulnerability poses a medium-severity risk with high confidentiality and integrity impacts, requiring high privileges but no user interaction.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-20659

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows authenticated users to perform command injection on affected NETGEAR routers.

Affected Systems and Versions

R6400v2 versions earlier than 1.0.4.84
R6700 versions earlier than 1.0.2.8
R6700v3 versions earlier than 1.0.4.84
R6900 versions earlier than 1.0.2.8
R7900 versions earlier than 1.0.3.10

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by authenticated users to execute arbitrary commands on the affected routers.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

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

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update router firmware to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement strong password policies and multi-factor authentication.
Conduct security audits and penetration testing periodically.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and firmware updates released by NETGEAR to address the command injection vulnerability.