CVE-2024-20287: Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the web-based management interface of the Cisco WAP371 Wireless-AC/N Dual Radio Access Point that could potentially allow an authenticated, remote attacker to execute command injection attacks against the affected device.

Understanding CVE-2024-20287

This section will delve into what CVE-2024-20287 entails and its implications for affected systems and versions.

What is CVE-2024-20287?

The vulnerability in CVE-2024-20287 arises from improper validation of user-supplied input within the web-based management interface of the Cisco WAP371 Wireless-AC/N Dual Radio Access Point. If exploited, an attacker with authenticated access could send crafted HTTP requests to manipulate the affected device, potentially leading to arbitrary command execution with root privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2024-20287

In the event of a successful exploit, the attacker could gain unauthorized administrative control over the device, posing a significant risk to the confidentiality and integrity of the system. This security flaw could potentially be leveraged to disrupt operations or exfiltrate sensitive information.

Technical Details of CVE-2024-20287

In this section, we will explore the specific technical aspects of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Cisco WAP371 Wireless-AC/N Dual Radio Access Point is attributed to the lack of proper validation of user input. This flaw enables an attacker to inject malicious commands into the device through crafted HTTP requests, potentially leading to unauthorized execution of commands with elevated privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

Several versions of the Cisco Business Wireless Access Point Software are affected by this vulnerability, including 1.0.1.5, 1.0.0.10, 1.0.0.9, 1.1.2.3, 1.2.0.2, 1.2.0.3, 1.2.1.3, 1.3.0.3, 1.3.0.4, 1.3.0.6, and 1.3.0.7. Organizations using these versions are at risk if proper mitigation measures are not implemented promptly.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit CVE-2024-20287, an attacker must possess valid administrative credentials for the targeted device. By sending specially crafted HTTP requests to the web-based management interface, the attacker can execute commands with root privileges, bypassing normal security protocols.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines the essential steps to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2024-20287 and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Cisco recommends applying the latest security patches provided by the company to address this vulnerability.
Administrators should restrict access to the web-based management interface to trusted users only.
Regularly monitor network traffic and system logs for any suspicious activity that may indicate exploitation attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong password policies and multi-factor authentication to enhance access control.
Conduct regular security audits and assessments to identify and remediate vulnerabilities proactively.
Educate users and IT staff about the dangers of social engineering tactics and the importance of maintaining security best practices.

Patching and Updates

Organizations using affected versions of the Cisco Business Wireless Access Point Software should prioritize the installation of security patches released by Cisco to remediate CVE-2024-20287 effectively. Regularly updating software and firmware can help mitigate the risks associated with known vulnerabilities and enhance overall system security.