CVE-2021-34865 is a high-severity vulnerability that allows network-adjacent attackers to bypass authentication on affected installations of multiple NETGEAR routers. This vulnerability is particularly critical as it does not require authentication to exploit. Specifically, the flaw exists within the mini_httpd service, which listens on TCP port 80 by default. The root cause stems from incorrect string matching logic when accessing protected pages, enabling attackers to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code with root-level access.
The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) score for this vulnerability is 8.8, categorizing it as high severity. The implications for organizations are serious, as successfully exploiting this vulnerability allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information and potentially disrupt network operations. As such, organizations must prioritize remediation.
Currently, there is no confirmed public exploit available, but the exploitation status indicates a significant risk. Organizations are strongly urged to implement the necessary patches immediately to mitigate this vulnerability.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to protect their network infrastructure from potential exploits.
Vulnerability Details
This vulnerability allows network-adjacent attackers to bypass authentication on affected installations of multiple NETGEAR routers. Authentication is not required to exploit this vulnerability. The specific flaw exists within the mini_httpd service, which listens on TCP port 80 by default. The issue results from incorrect string matching logic when accessing protected pages. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code in the context of root.
The CVSS score for CVE-2021-34865 is 8.8, indicating high severity. This score reflects the low attack complexity and the requirement for no privileges to exploit the vulnerability, which further increases its risk profile.
The affected products include various firmware versions for NETGEAR routers, such as the AC2100, AC2400, and R6220, among others. The vulnerability was published on January 25, 2022, and is categorized under CWE-287 (Improper Authentication) and CWE-697 (Improper Handling of Untrusted Input).
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2021-34865 is linked to the mini_httpd service's flawed string matching logic. This vulnerability can be exploited through an adjacent network, requiring low complexity to execute an attack. Importantly, the exploitation does not necessitate any user interaction, allowing for a potential attack vector that is both simple and effective.
The attack complexity is classified as low, with no privileges required for an attacker to initiate an exploit. Furthermore, the impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability are all rated as high, indicating that a successful exploitation could compromise sensitive data, alter system functionality, and disrupt services.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive data, with the potential for attackers to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code within the router's context. This could lead to further attacks against other devices on the network, increasing the blast radius of the vulnerability.
Given the high CVSS score and the fact that it is not listed in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, organizations should assess their exposure and prioritize remediation in their patching cycles. The potential for exploitation, combined with the high impact of a successful attack, necessitates immediate attention.
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The following NETGEAR router firmware versions are affected by CVE-2021-34865: AC2100, AC2400, AC2600, D7000v1, R6220, R6230, R6260, R6330, R6350, R6700v2, R6800, R6850, R6900v2, R7200, R7350, R7400, and R7450, specifically versions prior to the respective patches.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should apply the latest firmware updates from NETGEAR to remediate this vulnerability. The recommended version to upgrade to is version 1.2.0.88 or later for AC2100, AC2400, AC2600, and 1.1.0.110 for R6220, R6230, R6260, and others as specified in the vendor advisory. If patches are unavailable, organizations should consider implementing network controls to restrict access to the affected routers and enhance monitoring for unusual activity.
For further assistance, organizations may engage in penetration testing services to assess their security posture and validate the effectiveness of their remediation efforts.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for indications of unauthorized access attempts, particularly focusing on access to the mini_httpd service on TCP port 80. Unusual requests to protected pages or any attempts to manipulate session tokens should also be logged and investigated. Behavioral anomalies in network traffic that deviate from normal patterns can indicate potential exploitation attempts.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2021-34865 lies in its demonstration of vulnerabilities present in widely used consumer devices. This incident highlights the need for security teams to remain vigilant about the firmware of network devices and the implications of such vulnerabilities. Organizations should implement regular security assessments and maintain a robust vulnerability management program to identify and address risks proactively.
For organizations engaged in cloud services, understanding how vulnerabilities like CVE-2021-34865 can affect their overall security posture is critical. Regular audits and updates are essential to ensuring that network devices do not become an attack vector.
Security teams may find value in reviewing our penetration testing methodology to enhance their understanding of effective testing practices.
Furthermore, exploring our resource on vulnerability management program design can assist organizations in establishing a framework for ongoing security improvements.
Lastly, understanding the lessons from incidents like CVE-2021-34865 can help organizations develop a more resilient security posture against future threats.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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