CVE-2021-23147 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A vulnerability has been identified in Netgear Nighthawk R6700 version 1.0.4.120 that lacks sufficient protections for the UART console, allowing an attacker with physical access to execute commands as the root user without authentication.

Understanding CVE-2021-23147

This section will delve into the details of the CVE-2021-23147 vulnerability affecting Netgear Nighthawk R6700 devices.

What is CVE-2021-23147?

The CVE-2021-23147 vulnerability exists in Netgear Nighthawk R6700 version 1.0.4.120, enabling unauthorized users with physical access to the device to gain root user privileges through the UART console without the need for authentication.

The Impact of CVE-2021-23147

The impact of CVE-2021-23147 is severe as it allows malicious actors physical access to the device to execute commands and potentially compromise the security and integrity of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-23147

Let's explore the technical aspects of CVE-2021-23147 in more detail.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises due to insufficient protections for the UART console in Netgear Nighthawk R6700 version 1.0.4.120, enabling unauthorized access and command execution by attackers with physical proximity to the device.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected product is the Netgear Nighthawk R6700 version 1.0.4.120. Other versions may not be impacted by this specific vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by connecting to the UART port via a serial connection, allowing them to run commands as the root user without requiring any form of authentication.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address the CVE-2021-23147 vulnerability, certain steps should be taken to enhance the security posture of Netgear Nighthawk R6700 devices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to restrict physical access to the device, apply vendor-supplied patches, and monitor for any unauthorized activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strong physical security measures, regular security audits, and enforcing the principle of least privilege can reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Regularly checking for security updates from the vendor, applying patches promptly, and keeping the firmware up to date are crucial in mitigating the CVE-2021-23147 vulnerability.