CVE-2021-38521 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE involves certain NETGEAR devices affected by command injection, impacting specific router models with versions before specified releases.

Understanding CVE-2021-38521

NETGEAR devices are susceptible to command injection by authenticated users, affecting multiple router models.

What is CVE-2021-38521?

Command injection vulnerability in NETGEAR devices
Affected router models: R6400, R7900P, R8000P, RAX75, RAX80
Versions impacted: R6400 before 1.0.1.50, R7900P before 1.4.1.50, R8000P before 1.4.1.50, RAX75 before 1.0.1.62, RAX80 before 1.0.1.62

The Impact of CVE-2021-38521

CVSS v3.1 Base Score: 6.1 (Medium)
Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
Scope: Unchanged
User Interaction: Required
Confidentiality and Integrity Impact: High
Privileges Required: High
Availability Impact: Low

Technical Details of CVE-2021-38521

NETGEAR devices vulnerabilities and their impact.

Vulnerability Description

Command injection by authenticated users

Affected Systems and Versions

Specific router models: R6400, R7900P, R8000P, RAX75, RAX80
Affected versions mentioned earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: High
User Interaction: Required

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE issue.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update affected devices to the specified fixed versions
Monitor network for any unusual behavior
Change default credentials and enforce strong passwords
Limit network access to authorized users

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update firmware and security patches
Conduct security audits and penetration testing
Educate users on cybersecurity best practices

Patching and Updates

Refer to NETGEAR's official security advisory for patch details
Apply patches as soon as they are released to mitigate risks