Command Injection Vulnerability in Cisco Unified Industrial Wireless Software Could Allow Remote Root Access

CVE-2024-20418

10CRITICAL

Key Information

Vendor: Cisco
Status: Cisco Aironet Access Point Software (iOS Xe Controller)
Vendor: CVE Published:; 6 November 2024

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What is CVE-2024-20418?

CVE-2024-20418 is a serious vulnerability found in the web-based management interface of Cisco Unified Industrial Wireless Software, specifically for Cisco Ultra-Reliable Wireless Backhaul (URWB) Access Points. This flaw enables unauthenticated, remote attackers to perform command injection attacks, which can grant them root access to the underlying operating system of affected devices. Such unauthorized access poses a significant risk to organizations utilizing Cisco's wireless solutions, as it can lead to severe operational disruptions, data breaches, and unauthorized system control.

Technical Details

This vulnerability arises from inadequate validation of input within the management interface. When crafted HTTP requests are sent by an attacker, they can exploit the flaw to execute arbitrary commands with root-level privileges. The inability of the system to properly validate the input allows for these commands to be executed in a manner that compromises the integrity and security of the device.

Impact of the Vulnerability

Unauthorized Remote Access: Attackers can gain root-level access without needing authentication, which could allow them to take full control of the affected devices.
System Compromise: With root privileges, attackers can manipulate system settings, install malicious software, or disable critical functionality, leading to widespread operational disruptions.
Data Breaches: The exploitation of this vulnerability can result in the theft of sensitive data, potential financial loss, and reputational damage for organizations relying on the affected systems.

Affected Version(s)

Cisco Aironet Access Point Software (IOS XE Controller) =

News Articles

CyberSecurityNews

CVE-2024-20418

Cisco Industrial Wireless Software Flaw Let Attackers Run Command As Root User

A critical security vulnerability tracked as “CVE-2024-20418”, was detected recently in the web GUI of Cisco Unified Industrial Wireless Software installed on Ultra-Reliable Wireless Backhaul (URWB) Access Points.

2 months ago

The Register

CVE-2024-20418

Cisco scores an (im)perfect CVSS 10 with critical Wi-Fi flaw

Cisco is issuing a critical alert notice about a flaw that makes its so-called Ultra-Reliable Wireless Backhaul systems easy to subvert. The weakness – dubbed CVE-2024-20418 and made public yesterday – is...

2 months ago