Severity: HIGH
Description: **UNSUPPORTED WHEN ASSIGNED** The improper authentication vulnerability in the Zyxel P-6101C ADSL modem firmware version P-6101CSA6AP_20140331 could allow an unauthenticated attacker to read some device information via a crafted HTTP HEAD method.
CVSS Score: 7.5
B
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1. Risk Assessment
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-11494 is a high-severity issue with a CVSS score of 7.5. It affects the Zyxel P-6101C ADSL modem firmware version P-6101CSA6AP_20140331. The vulnerability stems from improper authentication, allowing an unauthenticated attacker to read sensitive device information by exploiting a crafted HTTP HEAD method. The attack vector is network-based, requiring no user interaction or privileges, making it relatively easy to exploit.
The primary risk lies in the compromise of confidentiality, as attackers can access device information without authentication. While there is no direct impact on integrity or availability, the exposure of sensitive data could facilitate further attacks, such as reconnaissance for targeted exploits or network mapping. The likelihood of exploitation is moderate, given the low attack complexity and the absence of required privileges. However, the EPSS score of 0.000430000 suggests that active exploitation is currently rare.
Business impact includes potential reputational damage, regulatory non-compliance if sensitive data is exposed, and increased risk of secondary attacks. Organizations using the affected firmware should treat this vulnerability as a priority due to its high confidentiality impact and ease of exploitation.
2. Potential Attack Scenarios
An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending a crafted HTTP HEAD request to the vulnerable Zyxel P-6101C ADSL modem. The attack process would involve the following steps:
- The attacker identifies the target device on the network, potentially through network scanning tools.
- Using a simple script or tool, the attacker crafts an HTTP HEAD request designed to bypass authentication mechanisms.
- The request is sent to the modem, which processes it and returns sensitive device information, such as firmware details, configuration data, or network settings.
- The attacker uses the obtained information to plan further attacks, such as exploiting other vulnerabilities or gaining unauthorized access to the network.
The potential outcomes include unauthorized access to sensitive information, which could be used for reconnaissance, targeted attacks, or sold on the dark web. This could lead to broader network compromise, data breaches, or service disruptions.
3. Mitigation Recommendations
Immediate actions should be taken to mitigate this vulnerability:
- Upgrade the firmware of the Zyxel P-6101C ADSL modem to a version that addresses this vulnerability. If no patch is available, consider replacing the device with a supported model.
- Restrict network access to the modem by implementing firewall rules or network segmentation to limit exposure to untrusted networks.
- Monitor network traffic for unusual HTTP HEAD requests or other signs of exploitation.
- Regularly review and update security configurations to ensure compliance with best practices.
For further guidance, refer to the following resources:
- Zyxel's official advisory or support page for firmware updates.
- PacketStorm Security's detailed analysis at https://packetstormsecurity.com/search/?q=CVE-2024-11494.
- Additional technical details and community insights at https://gist.github.com/stevenyu113228/78e0169d2ff110e9a65539eb29660d25.
4. Executive Summary
CVE-2024-11494 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting the Zyxel P-6101C ADSL modem firmware. It allows unauthenticated attackers to access sensitive device information via a crafted HTTP HEAD request, posing a significant risk to confidentiality. While the vulnerability does not directly impact system integrity or availability, the exposure of sensitive data could facilitate further attacks.
The likelihood of exploitation is moderate due to the low complexity of the attack and the lack of required privileges. Organizations using the affected firmware should prioritize mitigation efforts to prevent potential data breaches, reputational damage, and regulatory non-compliance.
Immediate actions include upgrading the firmware, restricting network access to the device, and monitoring for signs of exploitation. Addressing this vulnerability is critical to maintaining the security and integrity of your network infrastructure.