NETGEAR Multiple Routers curl_post Improper Certificate Validation Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

June 30th, 2023
ZDI-23-893 ZDI-CAN-19981

CVE ID

CVE-2023-35721

CVSS Score

8.1 AV:N/AC:H/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

Affected Vendors

NETGEAR

Affected Products

Multiple Routers

Vulnerability Details

This vulnerability allows network-adjacent attackers to compromise the integrity of downloaded information on affected installations of multiple NETGEAR routers. Authentication is not required to exploit this vulnerability.

The specific flaw exists within the update functionality, which operates over HTTPS. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of the certificate presented by the server. An attacker can leverage this in conjunction with other vulnerabilities to execute arbitrary code in the context of root.

Additional Details

NETGEAR has issued an update to correct this vulnerability. More details can be found at:
https://kb.netgear.com/000065668/Security-Advisory-for-Improper-Remote-Server-Certificate-Validation-on-the-RAX50-PSV-2023-0019

Disclosure Timeline

  • 2023-01-26 - Vulnerability reported to vendor
  • 2023-06-30 - Coordinated public release of advisory

Credit

Zach Hanley (@hacks_zach) of Horizon3 A.I.

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