CVE-2021-45616 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2021-45616 where unauthenticated attackers can execute commands on NETGEAR routers. Find out affected models and steps to prevent exploitation.
Certain NETGEAR devices are affected by command injection by an unauthenticated attacker. This vulnerability impacts various router models such as CBR750, R7000, R8000, and more.
Understanding CVE-2021-45616
This CVE pertains to command injection vulnerability on multiple NETGEAR router models that could allow an unauthenticated attacker to execute arbitrary commands.
What is CVE-2021-45616?
The vulnerability allows attackers to inject and execute commands without authentication on certain NETGEAR routers. It affects numerous models before specific firmware versions.
The Impact of CVE-2021-45616
The CVSS score of 9.6 (Critical) indicates a severe impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Attackers can exploit this flaw to compromise the affected devices entirely.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-45616
This section delves into the specific technical aspects of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers to perform command injections on various NETGEAR router models, potentially leading to full device compromise.
Affected Systems and Versions
- CBR750 before 3.2.18.2
- R7000 before 1.0.11.126
- R8000 before 1.0.4.68
- And more (refer to the CVE details for the full list)
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by sending specially crafted requests to the affected routers, allowing unauthorized individuals to run arbitrary commands.
Mitigation and Prevention
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-45616, consider the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update affected devices to the latest firmware versions promptly.
- Implement strong password policies for the router's admin interface.
- Restrict network access to trusted devices only.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor for firmware updates and apply them as soon as they are available.
- Conduct security assessments to identify and address any vulnerabilities on the network.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all NETGEAR devices are updated to the recommended firmware versions that contain patches for the command injection vulnerability.