CVE-2021-34861 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2021-34861 article provides insights into a vulnerability affecting D-Link DAP-2020 1.01rc001 routers that allow network-adjacent attackers to execute arbitrary code without authentication, posing a high-risk threat to affected systems.

Understanding CVE-2021-34861

This section delves into the specifics of the CVE-2021-34861 vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2021-34861?

CVE-2021-34861 is a critical vulnerability in D-Link DAP-2020 1.01rc001 routers that enables attackers to execute malicious code without the need for authentication. The flaw lies in the webproc endpoint, allowing attackers to exploit it via TCP port 80.

The Impact of CVE-2021-34861

The impact of CVE-2021-34861 is severe, with an overall CVSS base score of 8.8 (High). Attackers can execute code in the context of root, leading to confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-34861

Explore the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism in this section.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability results from insufficient validation of user-supplied data length, causing a stack-based buffer overflow. This allows attackers to execute arbitrary code within the router environment.

Affected Systems and Versions

D-Link DAP-2020 routers with version 1.01rc001 are affected by this vulnerability, making them susceptible to remote code execution attacks.

Exploitation Mechanism

By sending specially crafted data to the webproc endpoint listening on TCP port 80, attackers can exploit the lack of proper validation to execute malicious code and gain root access.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn about the immediate steps to take and long-term security practices to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-34861.

Immediate Steps to Take

It is crucial to apply security patches provided by D-Link promptly to address CVE-2021-34861. Monitor network traffic and restrict access to vulnerable devices.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement network segmentation, use strong passwords, conduct regular security audits, and stay informed about security updates to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Stay vigilant for firmware updates and security advisories released by D-Link. Regularly update router firmware to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.