CVE-2021-45638 : Security Advisory and Response

Certain NETGEAR devices are affected by a critical stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability that can be exploited by an unauthenticated attacker to impact various router models.

Understanding CVE-2021-45638

This CVE involves a severe security issue in multiple NETGEAR router models allowing unauthorized attackers to execute a stack-based buffer overflow attack.

What is CVE-2021-45638?

The CVE-2021-45638 vulnerability involves a stack-based buffer overflow in certain NETGEAR routers, enabling unauthenticated attackers to compromise the devices.

The Impact of CVE-2021-45638

The severity of this CVE is rated as CRITICAL with a CVSS base score of 9.6 due to its high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-45638

This section provides specific technical details about the CVE-2021-45638 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

A stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability affects multiple NETGEAR router models
Attackers can exploit this flaw remotely without authentication

Affected Systems and Versions

D6220 before 1.0.0.68
D6400 before 1.0.0.102
D7000v2 before 1.0.0.74
D8500 before 1.0.3.60
and other affected models

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Adjacent Network
Privileges Required: None
Scope: Changed

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2021-45638 requires immediate actions and ongoing security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update all affected NETGEAR router models to the latest firmware version
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity
Implement strong network segmentation

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly patch and update all network devices
Conduct security audits and penetration testing periodically

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and firmware updates as soon as they are released by NETGEAR
Stay informed about any new security advisories and CVEs related to your network devices