CVE-2021-1206 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Cisco Small Business RV110W, RV130, RV130W, and RV215W Routers are vulnerable to remote command execution and denial of service attacks due to multiple vulnerabilities in their web-based management interface. Attackers with valid administrator credentials could exploit these flaws to execute arbitrary code or induce device reloads.

Understanding CVE-2021-1206

This CVE affects Cisco Small Business RV110W, RV130, RV130W, and RV215W Routers, potentially allowing attackers to take control of the devices remotely.

What is CVE-2021-1206?

CVE-2021-1206 exposes critical security vulnerabilities in Cisco Small Business RV Series Router Firmware. Improper input validation in the web-based management interface could enable attackers to execute malicious commands.

The Impact of CVE-2021-1206

With a CVSS base score of 7.2, this high-severity vulnerability could lead to arbitrary code execution with root privileges or denial of service attacks, requiring immediate attention.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-1206

The CVE arises from flaws in user-supplied input validation within the routers' web-based management interface.

Vulnerability Description

Improper validation of user input allows attackers to craft HTTP requests, leading to arbitrary code execution as the root user or causing device reloads.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Cisco Small Business RV110W, RV130, RV130W, and RV215W Routers with unspecified versions.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by sending crafted HTTP requests, leveraging valid administrator credentials on the affected devices.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard against CVE-2021-1206, immediate steps must be taken to secure the vulnerable routers and deploy necessary patches.

Immediate Steps to Take

Administrators should monitor Cisco's security advisories closely, apply security best practices, and restrict access to the routers' management interface.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular security audits, network segmentation, and timely application of security patches are essential for maintaining a secure network infrastructure.

Patching and Updates

Cisco is yet to release software updates addressing the vulnerabilities. Keep track of vendor announcements and apply patches promptly to mitigate the risks.