CVE-2021-45573 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2021-45573, a critical stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability affecting certain NETGEAR router models. Find out the impacted systems, exploitation risks, and mitigation steps.
Certain NETGEAR devices are affected by a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability that allows an unauthenticated attacker to execute arbitrary code.
Understanding CVE-2021-45573
This CVE involves a critical vulnerability in various NETGEAR router models that could lead to remote code execution.
What is CVE-2021-45573?
The CVE-2021-45573 vulnerability is a stack-based buffer overflow in NETGEAR routers that permits unauthorized attackers to trigger this flaw remotely.
The Impact of CVE-2021-45573
This vulnerability has a high severity level with significant impacts:
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Attack Vector: Adjacent Network
- Availability Impact: Low
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: High
- Privileges Required: None
- User Interaction: None
Technical Details of CVE-2021-45573
This section delves into the technical aspects of CVE-2021-45573.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers to exploit a stack-based buffer overflow in NETGEAR routers.
Affected Systems and Versions
The following NETGEAR router models are affected:
- R6260 before 1.1.0.76
- R6800 before 1.2.0.62
- R6700v2 before 1.2.0.62
- R6900v2 before 1.2.0.62
- R7450 before 1.2.0.62
- AC2100 before 1.2.0.62
- AC2400 before 1.2.0.62
- AC2600 before 1.2.0.62
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited remotely without the need for privileges, posing a severe security risk to affected devices.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting against CVE-2021-45573 requires immediate actions and ongoing security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update NETGEAR routers to the latest firmware versions that contain patches for this vulnerability.
- Implement strong network access controls to limit exposure.
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update router firmware to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address potential weaknesses.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security updates provided by NETGEAR to mitigate the CVE-2021-45573 vulnerability.