CVE-2020-10924 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability in NETGEAR R6700 routers allows attackers to bypass authentication, potentially leading to code execution.

Understanding CVE-2020-10924

This CVE involves a stack-based buffer overflow in NETGEAR R6700 routers, enabling attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms.

What is CVE-2020-10924?

The vulnerability permits network-adjacent attackers to circumvent authentication on affected NETGEAR R6700 V1.0.4.84_10.0.58 installations by exploiting a flaw in the UPnP service.

The Impact of CVE-2020-10924

CVSS Base Score: 8.8 (High Severity)
Attack Vector: Adjacent Network
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High

Technical Details of CVE-2020-10924

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw arises from inadequate validation of user-supplied data length before copying it to a fixed-length buffer, potentially allowing attackers to execute code as root.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: NETGEAR R6700
Affected Version: V1.0.4.84_10.0.58

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by network-adjacent attackers leveraging the UPnP service on TCP port 5000 to bypass authentication mechanisms.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-10924 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable UPnP services on affected routers if possible.
Implement strong network segmentation to limit exposure.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update router firmware to patch known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments to identify and address potential weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches provided by NETGEAR to address the CVE-2020-10924 vulnerability.