CVE-2020-15417 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This vulnerability allows network-adjacent attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of NETGEAR R6700 V1.0.4.84_10.0.58 routers without requiring authentication. The flaw lies in the handling of string table file uploads, enabling a stack-based buffer overflow.

Understanding CVE-2020-15417

This CVE-2020-15417 vulnerability affects NETGEAR R6700 routers, allowing attackers to execute code without authentication.

What is CVE-2020-15417?

CVE-2020-15417 is a vulnerability in NETGEAR R6700 routers that permits network-adjacent attackers to run arbitrary code without needing authentication. The issue arises from a stack-based buffer overflow in the handling of string table file uploads.

The Impact of CVE-2020-15417

CVSS Base Score: 6.3 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Adjacent Network
Attack Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: None
Confidentiality Impact: Low
Integrity Impact: Low
Availability Impact: Low

Technical Details of CVE-2020-15417

This section provides technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows attackers to trigger a stack-based buffer overflow by crafting a specific gui_region in a string table file, leading to code execution within the web server context.

Affected Systems and Versions

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

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by uploading a malicious string table file containing a crafted gui_region, causing a buffer overflow and enabling code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-15417 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by NETGEAR promptly.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update firmware and software to patch known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address weaknesses.
Educate users on safe browsing habits and the importance of cybersecurity.
Employ intrusion detection and prevention systems to enhance network security.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all NETGEAR R6700 routers are updated with the latest firmware and security patches to mitigate the CVE-2020-15417 vulnerability.