Source: vulnreport@tenable.com
Netgear Nighthawk R6700 version 1.0.4.120 does not utilize secure communication methods to the SOAP interface. By default, all communication to/from the device's SOAP Interface (port 5000) is sent via HTTP, which causes potentially sensitive information (such as usernames and passwords) to be transmitted in cleartext
Netgear Nighthawk R6700 routers running firmware version 1.0.4.120 are vulnerable to a cleartext transmission of sensitive credentials due to the use of HTTP for SOAP interface communication. This allows attackers to intercept usernames and passwords, potentially leading to complete network compromise and data exfiltration. This vulnerability poses a significant risk to home and small business networks.
Step 1: Target Identification: The attacker identifies a vulnerable Netgear Nighthawk R6700 router on the network or internet. This can be done through port scanning (port 5000) or by searching for devices with the specific firmware version.
Step 2: Traffic Interception: The attacker positions themselves to intercept network traffic. This could involve being on the same network (e.g., via Wi-Fi), or by performing a MITM attack. This can be achieved through techniques like ARP poisoning or DNS spoofing.
Step 3: SOAP Interface Interaction: The attacker sends requests to the router's SOAP interface (port 5000) using HTTP. These requests might be for configuration information or to trigger authentication.
Step 4: Credential Capture: As the router communicates with the attacker, any credentials used for authentication (e.g., admin username and password) are transmitted in cleartext over HTTP. The attacker captures this data using a packet sniffer (e.g., Wireshark).
Step 5: Access and Control: With the captured credentials, the attacker can log in to the router's web interface and gain full control of the device. This allows the attacker to modify network settings, redirect traffic, and potentially access other devices on the network.
The vulnerability stems from the Netgear Nighthawk R6700's reliance on HTTP (port 5000) for communication with its SOAP interface. The SOAP interface is used for device management and configuration. The lack of encryption (HTTPS) means that any data exchanged, including usernames and passwords used for authentication, is transmitted in plain text. This is a design flaw, not a coding error, as the developers chose to implement the SOAP interface over HTTP. The root cause is the absence of secure communication protocols like TLS/SSL, which would encrypt the data in transit. This allows for easy man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks and passive sniffing of network traffic to capture credentials.
While no specific APT groups are directly linked to exploiting this vulnerability, the ease of exploitation makes it attractive to various threat actors. This type of vulnerability is often used by opportunistic attackers and botnets. Not listed on CISA KEV at the time of this report.
Network traffic analysis: Monitor for HTTP traffic on port 5000 to the router's IP address. This indicates potential interaction with the vulnerable SOAP interface.
Packet capture: Analyze network traffic using tools like Wireshark to identify cleartext transmission of credentials (usernames, passwords) when communicating with the router.
Log analysis: Review router logs for suspicious activity, such as multiple failed login attempts or unauthorized configuration changes.
IDS/IPS signatures: Implement signatures to detect HTTP traffic on port 5000 and/or attempts to access the SOAP interface.
Upgrade Firmware: Upgrade the Netgear Nighthawk R6700 router to the latest available firmware version that addresses the vulnerability. Check Netgear's website for updates.
Disable Remote Management: Disable remote management access to the router if not required. This reduces the attack surface.
Change Default Credentials: Change the default administrator username and password to a strong, unique password.
Network Segmentation: Segment the network to isolate the router from critical assets. This limits the impact of a successful compromise.
Monitor Network Traffic: Implement network monitoring tools to detect suspicious activity, such as unauthorized access attempts or unusual traffic patterns.
Enable HTTPS for Management: If possible, enable HTTPS for the router's web interface to encrypt all management traffic.