CVE-2021-40867 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2021-40867, a high-severity authentication hijacking vulnerability in certain NETGEAR smart switches, its impact, affected versions, and mitigation steps.
This CVE involves an authentication hijacking race-condition vulnerability in certain NETGEAR smart switches, allowing unauthenticated attackers to exploit the authentication process.
Understanding CVE-2021-40867
This section provides insights into the nature of the vulnerability and its impact.
What is CVE-2021-40867?
CVE-2021-40867 is an authentication hijacking race-condition vulnerability affecting specific NETGEAR smart switches due to a flaw in the HTTP authentication process.
The Impact of CVE-2021-40867
The vulnerability scores a CVSS base score of 7.8, indicating a high severity level with significant confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-40867
Exploring the technical aspects of the vulnerability in detail.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows an unauthenticated attacker operating from the same source IP as an admin to hijack the authentication process, potentially leading to unauthorized access.
Affected Systems and Versions
The following NETGEAR smart switches are confirmed to be impacted by this vulnerability:
- GC108P before 1.0.8.2
- GC108PP before 1.0.8.2
- GS108Tv3 before 7.0.7.2
- GS110TPP before 7.0.7.2
- and more.
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is exploited by an attacker manipulating the source IP address and intercepting the authentication process.
Mitigation and Prevention
A guide on how to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2021-40867.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade affected switches to the patched versions mentioned in the vendor's security advisory.
- Implement network segmentation to prevent unauthorized access.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor network activity for anomalies.
- Educate users on best security practices to mitigate social engineering attacks.
- Conduct regular security assessments and penetration tests.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches provided by NETGEAR to address the vulnerability.