CVE-2020-24365
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary commands as root on affected Gemtek routers through the Monitor Diagnostic network page. Attackers can gain full control of the device, potentially compromising the entire network. Users of Gemtek WRTM-127ACN and WRTM-127x9 routers with default or weak credentials are particularly vulnerable.
💻 Affected Systems
- Gemtek WRTM-127ACN
- Gemtek WRTM-127x9
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete compromise of router leading to network takeover, data interception, malware deployment, and lateral movement to connected devices.
Likely Case
Router compromise allowing network traffic monitoring, DNS hijacking, credential theft, and persistent backdoor installation.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if strong authentication is enforced and network segmentation isolates the router.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploit requires authentication but default credentials are commonly used. Public PoC available on Packet Storm and Pastebin.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Unknown
Vendor Advisory: Not found
Restart Required: No
Instructions:
No official patch available. Check vendor website for firmware updates. If unavailable, implement workarounds.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Change Default Credentials
allChange router admin password to strong, unique credentials.
Disable Remote Management
allDisable web interface access from WAN/Internet if not needed.
Network Segmentation
allIsolate router management interface to trusted network segment only.
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict network access controls to limit who can reach router management interface
- Monitor for suspicious command execution attempts in router logs
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check router firmware version via web interface. If version matches affected list and Monitor Diagnostic page exists, device is vulnerable.Check Version:
Check via router web interface: System Information or Status pageVerify Fix Applied:
Verify firmware has been updated to newer version than affected ones. Test Monitor Diagnostic page for command injection.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual command execution in router logs
- Multiple failed login attempts followed by successful login
Network Indicators:
- Unexpected outbound connections from router
- Suspicious traffic patterns from router IP
SIEM Query:
source="router" AND (event="command_execution" OR event="login_success" user="admin")