CVE-2021-38478
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on InHand Networks IR615 routers by injecting commands through traceroute tools. It affects organizations using these routers in vulnerable versions, potentially enabling full device compromise.
💻 Affected Systems
- InHand Networks IR615 Router
📦 What is this software?
Ir615 Firmware by Inhandnetworks
Ir615 Firmware by Inhandnetworks
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Full remote code execution leading to device takeover, data exfiltration, or use as a pivot point in the network.
Likely Case
Unauthenticated attackers gaining shell access to modify configurations or disrupt services.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if routers are isolated or patched, but still poses risk if exposed.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation involves command injection via traceroute, making it relatively simple for attackers with network access.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Update to a version beyond 2.3.0.r4870; check vendor for specific fixed version.
Vendor Advisory: https://us-cert.cisa.gov/ics/advisories/icsa-21-280-05
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Check current firmware version on the router. 2. Download the latest firmware from InHand Networks. 3. Upload and apply the firmware update via the router's web interface or CLI. 4. Reboot the router to complete the update.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Block traceroute traffic
linuxUse firewall rules to block incoming traceroute (ICMP/UDP) traffic to the router.
iptables -A INPUT -p icmp --icmp-type traceroute -j DROP
iptables -A INPUT -p udp --dport 33434:33534 -j DROP
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate the router on a segmented network to limit access.
- Monitor network traffic for unusual traceroute activity or command injection attempts.
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check the router's firmware version via the web interface or CLI; if it is 2.3.0.r4724 or 2.3.0.r4870, it is vulnerable.Check Version:
ssh admin@router_ip show version or check via web interface at http://router_ip/statusVerify Fix Applied:
After updating, confirm the firmware version has changed to a non-vulnerable version and test traceroute injection attempts fail.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual traceroute requests in router logs
- Command execution attempts in system logs
Network Indicators:
- Suspicious traceroute packets with embedded commands to router IPs
SIEM Query:
source="router_logs" AND (traceroute OR command_injection)