Description
Netgear WNR854T 1.5.2 (North America) contains a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the SetDefaultConnectionService function due to an unconstrained use of sscanf. The vulnerability allows for control of the program counter and can be utilized to achieve arbitrary code execution.
EPSS Score:
0%
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of EUVD-2025-9054
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
The vulnerability EUVD-2025-9054 affects the Netgear WNR854T router, specifically version 1.5.2 (North America). The issue is a stack-based buffer overflow in the SetDefaultConnectionService function, caused by an unconstrained use of sscanf. This vulnerability allows an attacker to control the program counter, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution.
Severity Evaluation:
- CVSS Base Score: 9.8
- CVSS Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
The high base score of 9.8 indicates a critical vulnerability. The CVSS vector breakdown shows that the vulnerability can be exploited over the network (AV:N), requires low attack complexity (AC:L), does not require privileges (PR:N) or user interaction (UI:N), and has a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H).
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
Attack Vectors:
- Remote Exploitation: Given the network attack vector (AV:N), an attacker can exploit this vulnerability remotely without needing physical access to the device.
- Unauthenticated Access: The vulnerability does not require any privileges (PR:N), meaning an attacker does not need to authenticate to exploit it.
Exploitation Methods:
- Buffer Overflow: The attacker can send specially crafted input to the
SetDefaultConnectionServicefunction, causing a stack-based buffer overflow. - Code Execution: By controlling the program counter, the attacker can execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to full control over the device.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
Affected Systems:
- Netgear WNR854T router
Affected Software Versions:
- Firmware version 1.5.2 (North America)
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
Immediate Mitigation:
- Network Segmentation: Isolate the affected devices from critical networks to limit the potential impact of an exploit.
- Firewall Rules: Implement strict firewall rules to restrict access to the router's management interface.
- Monitoring: Increase monitoring of network traffic to and from the affected devices to detect any suspicious activity.
Long-Term Mitigation:
- Firmware Update: Apply the latest firmware updates provided by Netgear as soon as they are available.
- Vendor Communication: Contact Netgear for any available patches or workarounds.
- Security Best Practices: Ensure that all devices are configured with strong, unique passwords and that default credentials are changed.
5. Impact on European Cybersecurity Landscape
The vulnerability poses a significant risk to European organizations and individuals using the affected Netgear router. Given the widespread use of such devices in both home and business environments, the potential for large-scale exploitation is high. This underscores the need for robust vulnerability management practices and timely patching to mitigate risks.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
Vulnerability Details:
- Function Affected:
SetDefaultConnectionService - Root Cause: Unconstrained use of
sscanfleading to a stack-based buffer overflow. - Exploitability: The vulnerability can be exploited by sending malicious input to the affected function, leading to arbitrary code execution.
Detection and Response:
- Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Configure IDS to detect anomalous traffic patterns that may indicate an attempt to exploit this vulnerability.
- Log Analysis: Regularly review logs for any unusual activity related to the
SetDefaultConnectionServicefunction. - Incident Response: Develop an incident response plan that includes steps for isolating affected devices, applying patches, and conducting forensic analysis.
References:
Conclusion: The vulnerability EUVD-2025-9054 is critical and requires immediate attention from cybersecurity professionals. Organizations should prioritize patching affected devices and implementing robust security measures to mitigate the risk of exploitation. Continuous monitoring and adherence to best practices will help in maintaining a secure cyber environment.