CVE-2021-20090:Path traversal vulnerability in Buffalo WSR-2533DHPL2 and WSR-2533DHP3 routers allows unauthenticated remote attackers to bypass authentication.

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A critical path traversal vulnerability (CWE-22) exists in the web interfaces of Buffalo WSR-2533DHPL2 (firmware version 1.02 and earlier) and WSR-2533DHP3 (firmware version 1.24 and earlier) routers. This vulnerability allows unauthenticated remote attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and potentially gain unauthorized access to the device. The vulnerability is part of a broader issue affecting multiple Arcadyan-based routers and modems, which have been reported to be under active exploitation in the wild.

Overview

The vulnerability (CVE-2021-20090) is a path traversal issue in the web interface of affected Buffalo router models. By exploiting this vulnerability, attackers can bypass authentication controls and access restricted functionality without providing valid credentials. This can lead to unauthorized configuration changes, information disclosure, and potentially complete compromise of the affected devices. The vulnerability has been classified as CWE-22 (Path Traversal) and is considered high risk due to the authentication bypass capabilities it provides to remote attackers. Reports indicate that similar vulnerabilities in Arcadyan-based devices have been actively exploited in the wild.

Remediation

To mitigate this vulnerability, users should:

  1. Update the firmware of affected devices to versions newer than 1.02 for WSR-2533DHPL2 and newer than 1.24 for WSR-2533DHP3, if available.
  2. If updates are not available, consider implementing network-level protections:
    • Restrict access to the router's web interface from the internet
    • Use a firewall to limit access to the management interface
    • Change default credentials and use strong passwords
    • Monitor for suspicious activities or unauthorized access attempts
  3. Contact Buffalo support for specific guidance if firmware updates are not yet available
  4. Consider replacing the affected devices if they cannot be updated or properly secured

References

  1. CERT Coordination Center Vulnerability Note: https://www.kb.cert.org/vuls/id/914124
  2. SecPod Blog on Active Exploitation: https://www.secpod.com/blog/arcadyan-based-routers-and-modems-under-active-exploitation/
  3. Tenable Security Research: https://www.tenable.com/security/research/tra-2021-13

Early Warning

Armis Early Warning customers received an advanced alert on this vulnerability.

Armis Alert Date
Aug 8, 2021
CISA KEV Date
Nov 3, 2021
87days early
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Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction
    Construction
  6. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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Armis Vulnerability Intelligence Database