CVE-2020-27861 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-27861, a high-severity vulnerability in NETGEAR Orbi 2.5.1.16 routers allowing network-adjacent attackers to execute code without authentication. Find mitigation steps and patching details here.
This vulnerability allows network-adjacent attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of NETGEAR Orbi 2.5.1.16 routers without requiring authentication. The flaw lies within the UA_Parser utility, where a crafted Host Name option in a DHCP request can trigger the execution of a system call, enabling attackers to run code as root.
Understanding CVE-2020-27861
This CVE-2020-27861 vulnerability impacts NETGEAR Orbi 2.5.1.16 routers, allowing attackers to execute code without authentication.
What is CVE-2020-27861?
CVE-2020-27861 is a vulnerability in NETGEAR Orbi 2.5.1.16 routers that permits network-adjacent attackers to run arbitrary code without needing authentication.
The Impact of CVE-2020-27861
- CVSS Score: 8.8 (High)
- Attack Vector: Adjacent Network
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: High
- Availability Impact: High
- Privileges Required: None
Technical Details of CVE-2020-27861
This section provides technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected NETGEAR Orbi 2.5.1.16 routers without authentication by exploiting a flaw in the UA_Parser utility.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Orbi
- Vendor: NETGEAR
- Version: 2.5.1.16
Exploitation Mechanism
The flaw in the UA_Parser utility can be triggered by a crafted Host Name option in a DHCP request, leading to the execution of a system call with a user-supplied string, enabling code execution as root.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-27861 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update affected systems to the latest firmware version provided by NETGEAR.
- Implement network segmentation to limit exposure to adjacent network attacks.
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch all network devices and software.
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.
- Educate users and administrators about security best practices.
Patching and Updates
- NETGEAR has released patches to address the vulnerability. Ensure timely installation of these patches to secure the affected systems.