CVE-2021-37563 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability has been identified in MediaTek microchips, affecting NETGEAR devices and other products. The flaw resides in the mishandling of the WPS protocol, potentially leading to out-of-bounds write attacks.

Understanding CVE-2021-37563

This section provides insights into the nature and impact of the CVE-2021-37563 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-37563?

The CVE-2021-37563 vulnerability is associated with MediaTek microchips found in various devices, including NETGEAR devices. It involves a mishandling of the WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) protocol, leading to potential security risks.

The Impact of CVE-2021-37563

The vulnerability poses a high risk to the confidentiality of affected systems, with a CVSS base score of 8.2 (High). While the attack complexity is low, it can be exploited remotely without requiring privileges, making it a critical issue.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-37563

Explore the specific technical aspects related to CVE-2021-37563 for a more comprehensive understanding.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from the WPS protocol mishandling in MediaTek microchips, impacting chipsets like MT7603E, MT7610, MT7612, MT7613, MT7615, MT7620, MT7622, MT7628, MT7629, and MT7915. It also affects devices running software versions 7.4.0.0, potentially leading to out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities.

Affected Systems and Versions

Devices utilizing MediaTek microchips, including NETGEAR products through 2021-11-11, are vulnerable to CVE-2021-37563. Specifically, chipsets MT7603E, MT7610, MT7612, MT7613, MT7615, MT7620, MT7622, MT7628, MT7629, and MT7915 running software version 7.4.0.0 are at risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring user interaction, emphasizing the critical need for immediate mitigation strategies.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover key steps to mitigate the CVE-2021-37563 vulnerability and enhance the security posture of impacted systems.

Immediate Steps to Take

It is crucial to implement security measures promptly to address the CVE-2021-37563 vulnerability. Network administrators should prioritize patching and system updates to prevent potential exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Incorporating robust security practices, such as regular security assessments, network segmentation, and access control mechanisms, can bolster the overall security resilience of organizations against similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Vendors, including NETGEAR and MediaTek, are expected to release security patches to address the CVE-2021-37563 vulnerability. Organizations should ensure timely application of these patches to mitigate associated risks.