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CVE-2022-23971 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Learn about CVE-2022-23971 affecting ASUS RT-AX56U routers. Explore the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies for the path traversal vulnerability.

A path traversal vulnerability, identified as CVE-2022-23971, impacts ASUS RT-AX56U devices. This vulnerability allows an unauthenticated LAN attacker to disrupt services by overwriting a system file. Here's what you need to know about this CVE.

Understanding CVE-2022-23971

The CVE-2022-23971 vulnerability affects the ASUS RT-AX56U router, enabling malicious actors to upload a specific file and compromise system integrity.

What is CVE-2022-23971?

ASUS RT-AX56U is susceptible to a path traversal issue due to inadequate filtering of special characters in the URL parameter. This flaw permits unauthorized local network attackers to overwrite critical system files, potentially causing service disruptions.

The Impact of CVE-2022-23971

With a high base severity score of 8.1, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to affected ASUS RT-AX56U devices. Attackers can exploit this flaw to compromise system integrity and disrupt services without requiring any user interaction.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-23971

Let's dive a bit deeper into the technical aspects of CVE-2022-23971.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the upload_PLC/PORT file feature in ASUS RT-AX56U routers, where insufficient validation of special characters in the URL allows unauthorized users on the LAN to overwrite system files.

Affected Systems and Versions

The specific affected version is 3.0.0.4.386.45898 of the ASUS RT-AX56U router.

Exploitation Mechanism

An unauthenticated attacker within the local network can exploit this vulnerability by uploading a malicious PLC/PORT file with the same name, overwriting system files and disrupting services.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard against CVE-2022-23971, users can take immediate preventive actions and implement long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the firmware of ASUS RT-AX56U routers to version 3.0.0.4.386.45934 to mitigate the path traversal vulnerability and prevent unauthorized file overwrites.

Long-Term Security Practices

Ensure regular firmware updates, conduct network security audits, and enforce strict access controls to prevent unauthorized access to critical system files.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches released by ASUS for the RT-AX56U router and promptly apply them to eliminate known vulnerabilities.

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