Hackers have intensified efforts to exploit a critical vulnerability affecting all D-Link DIR-859 WiFi routers, despite the model reaching end-of-life (EoL) status with no further updates from the manufacturer. Tracked as CVE-2024-0769 and rated with a severity score of 9.8, this vulnerability originates from a path traversal flaw within the “fatlady.php” file. This flaw allows malicious actors to bypass security measures and gain unauthorized access to sensitive configuration files, notably the ‘DEVICE.ACCOUNT.xml’, which contains valuable data such as account credentials, user groups, and descriptions.
Security experts from GreyNoise have observed active exploitation of CVE-2024-0769, with attackers leveraging a specific variation of the exploit to target the ‘DEVICE.ACCOUNT.xml’ file. By sending crafted POST requests to the ‘/hedwig.cgi’ endpoint, hackers can exploit the vulnerability to extract detailed configuration information from compromised routers. The targeted nature of these attacks, focusing on user passwords and account data, suggests a concerted effort to achieve complete device takeover, posing significant security risks for affected users.
D-Link has issued a security advisory acknowledging the vulnerability but has confirmed that no patch will be released to address CVE-2024-0769. Consequently, owners of the D-Link DIR-859 routers are strongly advised to consider replacing these devices with supported models to mitigate the risk of exploitation. The continued exploitation of this vulnerability highlights the persistent threat posed by unpatched vulnerabilities in legacy IoT devices, underscoring the critical importance of proactive security measures and timely device upgrades to safeguard sensitive information and network integrity.
As cybersecurity threats evolve, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities associated with outdated hardware and the necessity for robust security protocols. Network defenders and users alike are urged to remain vigilant against potential breaches and to adopt best practices in network security, including regular updates and monitoring for anomalous activities. This proactive approach is essential in mitigating the impact of cybersecurity incidents and ensuring the resilience of network infrastructures against emerging threats.
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