Source URL: https://www.theregister.com/2024/11/20/dlink_rip_replace_router/
Source: The Register
Title: D-Link tells users to trash old VPN routers over bug too dangerous to identify
Feedly Summary: Vendor offers 20% discount on new model, but not patches
Owners of older models of D-Link VPN routers are being told to retire and replace their devices following the disclosure of a serious remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability.…
AI Summary and Description: Yes
Summary: The text discusses a critical remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability affecting older D-Link VPN routers, prompting the vendor to advise owners to replace their devices. It highlights the severe security implications of unauthenticated RCE vulnerabilities and mentions other related issues currently affecting Apple Intel Macs.
Detailed Description:
The disclosure of a serious remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability in older D-Link VPN routers underscores the urgency for users to retire and replace affected devices. This vulnerability is classified as unauthenticated RCE, recognized as one of the most severe types of security weaknesses since it allows attackers to gain control of systems without proper authorization.
Key points include:
– **Vulnerability Details**:
– The RCE vulnerability is a buffer overflow issue and is not assigned a CVE identifier, indicating a lack of detailed public information due to its high-risk nature.
– D-Link strongly advises that continued use of these routers endangers other connected devices.
– **Potential Exploitation**:
– Past vulnerabilities in similar devices have shown how attackers can exploit such weaknesses to install rootkits.
– Attackers could surveil web traffic, steal credentials, or execute adversary-in-the-middle attacks, leading to further breaches or ransomware deployment.
– **Action Taken by D-Link**:
– Users are not receiving patches for these devices, as they have reached end of life (EOL) or end of support (EOS).
– D-Link offers a 20% discount on new service routers that are secure against this vulnerability.
– **Apple Bug**:
– In a related security context, Apple confirmed two zero-day vulnerabilities affecting older Intel Macs through the WebKit browser engine, which also impacts any browser built on WebKit, including those in iPadOS and iOS.
– Potential exploits can lead to arbitrary code execution and cross-site scripting, emphasizing the need for immediate updates to macOS.
– **User Recommendations**:
– Current router owners should regularly update passwords for their devices and ensure Wi-Fi encryption is activated to mitigate risks as they await guidance or replacement options.
This information holds significant implications for security and compliance professionals, stressing the importance of timely device updates and vulnerability management in safeguarding network infrastructure. The interconnectedness of device security compliance and user practices is crucial to prevent cascading failures in organizational safety.