Netgear RAX43 version 1.0.3.96 does not utilize secure communications to the web interface. By default, all communication to/from the device is sent via HTTP, which causes potentially sensitive information (such as usernames and passwords) to be transmitted in cleartext.
Netgear RAX43 routers running firmware version 1.0.3.96 are vulnerable to a critical security flaw. This vulnerability allows attackers to intercept sensitive information, including usernames and passwords, due to the lack of secure communication (HTTPS) on the web interface. Successful exploitation grants attackers the ability to fully compromise the router and potentially the connected network, leading to data breaches and network control.
Step 1: Network Reconnaissance: The attacker identifies a target Netgear RAX43 router on the network or internet, likely using port scanning (e.g., Nmap) to identify open port 80 (HTTP). Step 2: Traffic Interception: The attacker sets up a network sniffer (e.g., Wireshark) or a man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack using tools like Ettercap or MITMproxy. This can be done on the local network or by exploiting a vulnerability in the network infrastructure. Step 3: Credential Capture: When a user attempts to log in to the router's web interface (e.g., by entering the router's IP address in a web browser), their username and password are transmitted in cleartext over HTTP. The attacker intercepts this traffic. Step 4: Router Compromise: The attacker uses the captured credentials to log in to the router's web interface. This grants them administrative access, allowing them to modify settings, install malware, or access sensitive information.
The root cause of CVE-2021-20169 is the absence of HTTPS encryption for the web interface of the Netgear RAX43 router. The router defaults to using HTTP for all communication, including the transmission of authentication credentials. This means that any data exchanged between the user's web browser and the router is sent in cleartext. The specific logic flaw is the lack of a configuration option or default setting to enforce HTTPS. The router's web server listens on port 80 (HTTP) by default, and there is no redirection to a secure port (443/HTTPS). This allows for easy interception of traffic using tools like Wireshark or by performing a man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack. The lack of encryption means that attackers can passively sniff network traffic to capture usernames and passwords, which can then be used to gain unauthorized access to the router's administrative interface.