CVE-2020-5524 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2020-5524, an OS Command Injection vulnerability in NEC Aterm series devices, allowing attackers to execute unauthorized commands with root privileges via UPnP.
Aterm series (Aterm WF1200C firmware Ver1.2.1 and earlier, Aterm WG1200CR firmware Ver1.2.1 and earlier, Aterm WG2600HS firmware Ver1.3.2 and earlier) allows an attacker on the same network segment to execute arbitrary OS commands with root privileges via UPnP function.
Understanding CVE-2020-5524
This CVE involves an OS Command Injection vulnerability in NEC Corporation's Aterm series devices.
What is CVE-2020-5524?
CVE-2020-5524 is an OS Command Injection vulnerability that enables a malicious actor within the same network segment to run unauthorized OS commands with root privileges through the UPnP function.
The Impact of CVE-2020-5524
The vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access and control of affected devices, potentially resulting in data breaches, network compromise, and other malicious activities.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-5524
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in Aterm series devices allows an attacker to execute arbitrary OS commands with elevated privileges via the UPnP feature.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Aterm series
- Vendor: NEC Corporation
- Vulnerable Versions: Aterm WF1200C firmware Ver1.2.1 and earlier, Aterm WG1200CR firmware Ver1.2.1 and earlier, Aterm WG2600HS firmware Ver1.3.2 and earlier
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker on the same network segment, leveraging the UPnP function to execute malicious OS commands.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-5524 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Disable UPnP functionality on affected devices if not essential for operations.
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update firmware to the latest versions provided by NEC Corporation.
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches and security updates released by NEC Corporation to address the OS Command Injection vulnerability in Aterm series devices.