CVE-2020-10974 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

An issue was discovered affecting a backup feature where a crafted POST request returns the current configuration of the device in cleartext, including the administrator password. No authentication is required. Affected devices include Wavlink WN575A3, WN579G3, WN531A6, WN535G3, WN530H4, WN57X93, WN572HG3, WN575A4, WN578A2, WN579G3, WN579X3, and Jetstream AC3000/ERAC3000.

Understanding CVE-2020-10974

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in certain devices that exposes sensitive information without requiring authentication.

What is CVE-2020-10974?

The vulnerability allows an attacker to retrieve the device's configuration, including the admin password, through a specially crafted POST request without needing to authenticate.

The Impact of CVE-2020-10974

The impact of this vulnerability is severe as it exposes critical information, such as administrator passwords, to unauthorized individuals, compromising the security of the affected devices.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-10974

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw enables an attacker to access the device's configuration, including the admin password, via a crafted POST request without any authentication.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following devices are affected by CVE-2020-10974:

Wavlink WN575A3
Wavlink WN579G3
Wavlink WN531A6
Wavlink WN535G3
Wavlink WN530H4
Wavlink WN57X93
Wavlink WN572HG3
Wavlink WN575A4
Wavlink WN578A2
Wavlink WN579G3
Wavlink WN579X3
Jetstream AC3000/ERAC3000

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by sending a specifically crafted POST request to the affected devices, which then disclose the device's configuration, including the admin password, in plaintext.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting against CVE-2020-10974 requires immediate action and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable remote access to the affected devices if not essential.
Change the default admin password to a strong, unique one.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update device firmware to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential breaches.
Conduct security audits and penetration testing regularly.

Patching and Updates

Check for firmware updates from the device manufacturer and apply them promptly to address the vulnerability.