Overview
A command injection vulnerability exists in NETGEAR WNAP320 Access Point firmware version 2.0.3 that allows unauthenticated remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands due to insufficient input validation. This vulnerability can be exploited by attackers with network access to the device. The vulnerability was disclosed on April 21, 2017. CISA has identified CVE-2016-1555 as being exploited but is not currently known to be used in ransomware campaigns.
Technical details
The NETGEAR WNAP320 Access Point running firmware version 2.0.3 fails to properly validate user-supplied input in a vulnerable component. This insufficient input validation allows attackers to inject arbitrary shell commands that are executed with the privileges of the web service process, typically root/administrator level on network devices.
The vulnerability is classified as CWE-78 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command ('OS Command Injection')) andCWE-20 (Improper Input Validation) .
The vulnerability has received a CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.8 (CRITICAL) with the vector string CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H, indicating its critical nature.
Impact
An unauthenticated remote attacker can execute arbitrary commands on the affected access point with elevated privileges. This could lead to complete compromise of the device including: unauthorized access to network traffic passing through the access point, installation of persistent malware or backdoors, modification of device configuration, disruption of network services, and potential lateral movement to other network resources.
Mitigation and workarounds
NETGEAR released firmware version 2.0.4 and subsequent versions that address this vulnerability. Users should access the NETGEAR support website, identify their WNAP320 model, download the latest available firmware, and follow the provided upgrade instructions. The firmware update process typically involves: (1) Accessing the device's web management interface, (2) Navigating to Administration/Firmware Upgrade, (3) Selecting the downloaded firmware file, (4) Initiating the upgrade process, and (5) Allowing the device to reboot and complete the installation. The following versions include the necessary fixes: 2.0.4 and later.
As temporary workarounds: restrict network access to the wnap320 management interface by implementing network segmentation and firewall rules that limit access to trusted administrative networks only.; disable remote management features if not required and restrict the device to local administrative access only., and place the wnap320 on an isolated management vlan with restricted access from user networks..
CISA's recommendation: Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Source: This report was generated using AI
