CVE-2019-5016 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2019-5016, a critical vulnerability affecting NETGEAR Nighthawk routers. Understand the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
A vulnerability in the KCodes NetUSB.ko kernel module affects NETGEAR Nighthawk routers, allowing arbitrary memory reads and potential information disclosure.
Understanding CVE-2019-5016
This CVE involves a critical vulnerability in the NetUSB.ko kernel module used by NETGEAR Nighthawk routers, impacting the ReadySHARE Printer feature.
What is CVE-2019-5016?
The vulnerability allows attackers to trigger an invalid memory read by sending a crafted packet over the local network, potentially leading to denial of service or information disclosure.
The Impact of CVE-2019-5016
- CVSS Base Score: 10 (Critical)
- Attack Vector: Network
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Availability Impact: High
- Scope: Changed
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Privileges Required: None
- User Interaction: None
Technical Details of CVE-2019-5016
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in the NetUSB.ko kernel module allows for arbitrary memory reads, potentially leading to denial of service or information disclosure.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Products: KCodes
- Vendor: Talos
- Affected Versions:
- NETGEAR Nighthawk AC3200 (R8000) Firmware Version V1.0.4.2810.1.54 (11/7/18) - NetUSB.ko 1.0.2.66
- NETGEAR Nighthawk AC3000 (R7900) Firmware Version V1.0.3.810.0.37 (11/1/18) - NetUSB.ko 1.0.2.69
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by an unauthenticated attacker sending a specially crafted packet over the local network, triggering an invalid memory read.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-5016 is crucial to prevent potential attacks.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by the vendor promptly.
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update firmware and software to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address weaknesses.
Patching and Updates
- Check for firmware updates from the vendor regularly.
- Apply patches as soon as they are released to mitigate the risk of exploitation.