CVE-2019-3976 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2019-3976 affecting MikroTik RouterOS versions prior to 6.45.6 Stable and 6.44.5 Long-term. Find out how an authenticated user installing a malicious package can lead to directory creation and developer shell activation.
RouterOS versions prior to 6.45.6 Stable and 6.44.5 Long-term are vulnerable to an arbitrary directory creation flaw. This vulnerability allows the creation of directories through the name field of an upgrade package, potentially enabling the developer shell when a malicious package is installed.
Understanding CVE-2019-3976
Versions of RouterOS prior to 6.45.6 Stable and 6.44.5 Long-term are susceptible to a vulnerability that allows the creation of directories through the name field of an upgrade package. When an authenticated user proceeds to install a malicious package, it may result in the creation of a directory and enable the developer shell.
What is CVE-2019-3976?
CVE-2019-3976 is a vulnerability in MikroTik RouterOS versions that permits the creation of directories via the upgrade package's name field, potentially leading to the activation of the developer shell.
The Impact of CVE-2019-3976
- Unauthorized creation of directories through a malicious upgrade package
- Potential activation of the developer shell by an authenticated user
Technical Details of CVE-2019-3976
RouterOS versions prior to 6.45.6 Stable and 6.44.5 Long-term are affected by this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows the creation of directories through the name field of an upgrade package, leading to potential exploitation by authenticated users.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: MikroTik RouterOS
- Versions: RouterOS 6.45.6 Stable and below, RouterOS 6.44.5 Long-term and below
Exploitation Mechanism
When an authenticated user installs a malicious package, a directory can be created, and the developer shell may be enabled.
Mitigation and Prevention
It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2019-3976.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update RouterOS to version 6.45.6 Stable or above
- Avoid installing packages from untrusted sources
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor for security updates and patches
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential breaches
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches and updates provided by MikroTik promptly to mitigate the vulnerability