CVE-2024-25579: Unmasking OS Command Injection Vulnerability in ELECOM Wireless LAN Routers and e-Mesh Starter Kits

As technology continues to develop rapidly, the challenges posed by cybersecurity threats are more prevalent than ever. Today, we're going to delve into a newly discovered vulnerability, known as CVE-2024-25579, which affects ELECOM wireless LAN routers and the e-Mesh Starter Kit "WMC-2LX-B". Specifically, this vulnerability allows attackers with administrative privileges to execute arbitrary OS commands, posing a significant security risk to the affected devices and networks.

Overview

CVE-ID: CVE-2024-25579
Products: ELECOM wireless LAN routers (WMC-X180GST-B and WMC-2LX-B)
Type: OS command injection vulnerability

References

- ELECOM Security Advisory
- National Vulnerability Database (NVD) Listing
- Mitre CVE

Detailed Exploit

The OS command injection vulnerability in ELECOM wireless LAN routers allows a network-adjacent attacker with administrative privilege to execute arbitrary OS commands by sending a specially crafted request to the product. At its core, the vulnerability occurs due to insufficient input validation in the router's firmware.

One typical example of an OS command injection attack involves leveraging user-controllable data within a web application, potentially allowing an attacker to take control of the web server. In this specific case, when an attacker is logged in as an administrator on the affected router's web interface, they can send a request containing a malicious payload, ultimately leading to the execution of OS commands on the router's underlying operating system.

Code Snippet

The following payload demonstrates how an attacker can exploit the vulnerability to achieve arbitrary OS command execution:

POST /cgi-bin/exec_os_command.cgi HTTP/1.1
Host: [router_ip]
(...)
os_command=%3b%20[arbitrary_command]

Replace [router_ip] with the IP address of the vulnerable router and [arbitrary_command] with the desired command to be executed on the router's operating system.

Mitigation and Recommendations

To mitigate the threat posed by this vulnerability, ELECOM has released a firmware update for the affected routers. ELECOM recommends that all users of WMC-X180GST-B and e-Mesh Starter Kit "WMC-2LX-B" immediately update their firmware to the latest version, which contains a patch for the CVE-2024-25579 vulnerability.

In addition to installing the firmware update, users are advised to practice the following general security measures:

Regularly monitor and review network activity logs.

- Limit exposure of vulnerable devices to potential attackers by establishing proper network segregation.
- Continuously update and patch all hardware and software, including routers and other network devices.

Conclusion

Despite the rapid advancements in technology, cybersecurity remains a pressing concern. Vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-25579 in ELECOM wireless LAN routers serve as a sobering reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by individuals and organizations alike. By staying informed and implementing the appropriate security measures and updates, users can protect themselves against potential threats and maintain robust networks that are immune from crippling cyberattacks.

Timeline

Published on: 02/28/2024 23:15:09 UTC
Last modified on: 08/28/2024 16:35:14 UTC