CVE-2024-44540
📋 TL;DR
CVE-2024-44540 allows attackers with physical access to Ubiquiti AirMax devices to gain privileged command shell access via the UART debugging port. This vulnerability affects organizations using Ubiquiti AirMax wireless networking equipment with firmware version 8. Physical access to the device is required for exploitation.
💻 Affected Systems
- Ubiquiti AirMax wireless networking devices
⚠️ Manual Verification Required
This CVE does not have specific version information in our database, so automatic vulnerability detection cannot determine if your system is affected.
Why? The CVE database entry doesn't specify which versions are vulnerable (no version ranges provided by the vendor/NVD).
🔒 Custom verification scripts are available for registered users. Sign up free to download automated test scripts.
- Review the CVE details at NVD
- Check vendor security advisories for your specific version
- Test if the vulnerability is exploitable in your environment
- Consider updating to the latest version as a precaution
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete device compromise allowing attacker to reconfigure network settings, intercept traffic, install persistent backdoors, or use device as pivot point into internal networks.
Likely Case
Local attacker gains administrative control of device to disrupt network services, steal configuration data, or modify device behavior.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if devices are physically secured in locked cabinets or restricted access areas.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires physical access and basic hardware skills to connect to UART port. Public demonstration available in reference link.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Unknown
Vendor Advisory: Not available
Restart Required: No
Instructions:
No official patch available. Check Ubiquiti support portal for firmware updates addressing UART debugging vulnerabilities.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Physical Security Hardening
allSecure devices in locked cabinets or restricted access areas to prevent physical tampering.
UART Port Disable/Protection
allPhysically disable or protect UART debugging ports using epoxy, conformal coating, or removal of debug headers.
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict physical access controls to network equipment rooms/cabinets
- Regularly monitor devices for unauthorized configuration changes
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check device firmware version via web interface or SSH: show version. If firmware version is 8, device is vulnerable.Check Version:
show version (via SSH or device CLI)Verify Fix Applied:
No official fix available. Verify physical security measures are in place.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unexpected configuration changes
- Unauthorized CLI access logs
- Device reboot events without maintenance schedule
Network Indicators:
- Unexpected network configuration changes
- New unauthorized network services
SIEM Query:
Search for: 'configuration changed' OR 'reboot' events from AirMax devices outside maintenance windows