CVE-2023-28338 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE refers to a vulnerability found in the Netgear Nighthawk WiFi6 Router (RAX30) that could potentially lead to a denial of service attack by exhausting device resources.

Understanding CVE-2023-28338

This vulnerability allows an attacker to send a specific request to the router's web service, causing the device to write the request body to a specific directory on the device itself. If a large enough file is sent, it could overload the device's resources, rendering it unusable until rebooted.

What is CVE-2023-28338?

CVE-2023-28338 is a security vulnerability that affects the Netgear Nighthawk WiFi6 Router (RAX30) by allowing attackers to exploit the device's web service and exhaust its resources by sending a specific type of request.

The Impact of CVE-2023-28338

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it could lead to a denial of service situation where the Netgear Nighthawk WiFi6 Router (RAX30) becomes unresponsive and requires a reboot to recover functionality.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-28338

This section delves into the specific technical aspects of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, and how it can be exploited.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Netgear Nighthawk WiFi6 Router (RAX30) allows an attacker to write the request body to a specific directory on the device by sending a request with a particular "Content-Type" header, potentially leading to a denial of service.

Affected Systems and Versions

All known versions of the NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi6 Router (RAX30) are affected by this vulnerability, making it crucial for users of this device to take immediate action.

Exploitation Mechanism

By sending a request to the router's web service with a specific "Content-Type" header containing "multipartboundary=", an attacker can trigger the device to write the request body to a specific directory, ultimately causing resource exhaustion and device unresponsiveness.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is essential for users and administrators of the Netgear Nighthawk WiFi6 Router (RAX30) to take proactive measures to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2023-28338 and prevent potential attacks.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update the firmware of the affected device as soon as a patch becomes available to address the vulnerability and prevent potential exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strong network security measures, regularly monitoring for unusual activity, and keeping systems up to date with the latest security patches are essential long-term practices to enhance overall cybersecurity posture.

Patching and Updates

Users are advised to regularly check for firmware updates provided by Netgear for the Nighthawk WiFi6 Router (RAX30) and apply them promptly to ensure the device is protected against known vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-28338.