Description
Netgear Inc WNR854T 1.5.2 (North America) contains a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the parse_st_header function due to use of a request header parameter in a strncpy where size is determined based on the input specified. By sending a specially crafted packet, an attacker can take control of the program counter and hijack control flow of the program to execute arbitrary system commands.
EPSS Score:
0%
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of EUVD-2025-9057
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
The vulnerability EUVD-2025-9057 affects the Netgear Inc WNR854T router, specifically version 1.5.2 (North America). The issue is a stack-based buffer overflow in the parse_st_header function, which occurs due to the improper use of the strncpy function where the size is determined based on user input. This vulnerability allows an attacker to manipulate the program counter and hijack the control flow of the program, leading to the execution of arbitrary system commands.
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 remotely (AV:N), requires low complexity (AC:L), does not require any 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: An attacker can send a specially crafted packet to the vulnerable router over the network.
- Network-Based Attacks: The vulnerability can be exploited over the network without requiring physical access to the device.
Exploitation Methods:
- Crafted Packets: An attacker can craft a malicious packet that triggers the buffer overflow in the
parse_st_headerfunction. - Control Flow Hijacking: By manipulating the program counter, the attacker can redirect the execution flow to execute arbitrary commands.
- Command Injection: Once control flow is hijacked, the attacker can inject and execute system commands, potentially leading to full system compromise.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
Affected Systems:
- Netgear Inc WNR854T router
Affected Software Versions:
- Firmware version 1.5.2 (North America)
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
Immediate Mitigation:
- Network Segmentation: Isolate the affected routers from critical networks to limit the potential impact of an exploit.
- Firewall Rules: Implement strict firewall rules to block unsolicited incoming traffic to the router.
- Firmware Update: Apply any available patches or updates from Netgear as soon as they are released.
Long-Term Mitigation:
- Regular Patching: Ensure that all network devices are regularly updated with the latest firmware and security patches.
- Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Deploy IDS to monitor network traffic for signs of exploitation attempts.
- Security Audits: Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
5. Impact on European Cybersecurity Landscape
The vulnerability poses a significant risk to European organizations and individuals using the affected Netgear routers. Given the critical nature of the vulnerability, successful exploitation could lead to:
- Data Breaches: Unauthorized access to sensitive information.
- Service Disruption: Compromise of network availability and integrity.
- Widespread Impact: Potential for widespread attacks affecting multiple users and organizations.
Regulatory Compliance:
- Organizations must ensure compliance with relevant regulations such as GDPR, which mandates the protection of personal data.
- Failure to address this vulnerability could result in regulatory penalties and reputational damage.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
Vulnerability Details:
- Function Affected:
parse_st_header - Issue: Stack-based buffer overflow due to improper use of
strncpywith user-controlled size. - Exploit Mechanism: Crafted packet triggers buffer overflow, allowing control flow hijacking and arbitrary command execution.
Detection and Response:
- Log Analysis: Monitor router logs for unusual activity or error messages related to the
parse_st_headerfunction. - Network Monitoring: Use network monitoring tools to detect anomalous traffic patterns indicative of exploitation attempts.
- Incident Response: Develop and implement an incident response plan to quickly address any detected exploitation attempts.
References:
Conclusion: The vulnerability EUVD-2025-9057 is a critical issue affecting Netgear WNR854T routers. Immediate and long-term mitigation strategies are essential to protect against potential exploitation. Organizations should prioritize patching and monitoring to safeguard their networks and comply with regulatory requirements.