The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has issued an urgent alert regarding a critical path traversal vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-0769, affecting D-Link DIR-859 routers. This flaw is currently being actively exploited by malicious actors, posing significant risks to networks utilizing these devices.
Understanding CVE-2024-0769
CVE-2024-0769 is a path traversal vulnerability located within the `/hedwig.cgi` component of D-Link DIR-859 routers. This flaw allows unauthenticated remote attackers to access sensitive system files by manipulating the URL, effectively bypassing normal security restrictions. The vulnerability has been assigned a Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) score of 9.8, categorizing it as critical.
Technical Details of the Exploit
The exploitation process involves sending a specially crafted HTTP POST request to the `/hedwig.cgi` endpoint. By manipulating the `service` parameter to include a path traversal payload, such as `../../../../htdocs/webinc/getcfg/DHCPS6.BRIDGE-1.xml`, attackers can navigate the directory structure to access restricted configuration files. These files may contain sensitive information, including session tokens and configuration parameters, which can be leveraged to gain unauthorized administrative control over the router.
Implications of the Vulnerability
Once exploited, this vulnerability can lead to several severe consequences:
– Unauthorized Access: Attackers can retrieve sensitive information stored on the router, including user credentials and network configurations.
– Privilege Escalation: With access to configuration files, attackers may escalate their privileges, potentially gaining full administrative control over the device.
– Network Compromise: Compromised routers can serve as entry points for further attacks on connected devices, leading to widespread network infiltration.
End-of-Life Status and Lack of Support
D-Link DIR-859 routers have reached their end-of-life (EOL) status, meaning they no longer receive security updates or support from the manufacturer. This status significantly increases the risk associated with this vulnerability, as no official patches will be released to address the issue. Organizations and individuals using these routers are left without vendor-provided solutions to mitigate the threat.
CISA’s Response and Recommendations
In response to the active exploitation of CVE-2024-0769, CISA has added this vulnerability to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog as of June 25, 2025. Federal agencies are mandated to implement remediation measures by July 16, 2025, under Binding Operational Directive (BOD) 22-01. Given the EOL status of the affected routers, CISA strongly recommends replacing these devices with supported models that receive regular security updates.
Broader Context of D-Link Vulnerabilities
This incident is part of a broader pattern of vulnerabilities affecting D-Link devices, particularly those that have reached EOL status. For instance, in November 2024, a critical vulnerability (CVE-2024-11067) was discovered in D-Link DSL6740C modems, allowing unauthenticated remote attackers to read arbitrary system files. Similarly, in April 2024, over 92,000 D-Link NAS devices were targeted due to a critical remote code execution flaw (CVE-2024-3273). In both cases, D-Link did not release patches, advising users to retire and replace the affected devices.
Mitigation Strategies
For users and organizations still operating D-Link DIR-859 routers, the following steps are recommended:
1. Immediate Replacement: Replace the affected routers with newer models that are actively supported and receive regular security updates.
2. Network Segmentation: Until replacement is possible, segment the network to isolate the vulnerable router, minimizing potential exposure.
3. Access Controls: Restrict remote access to the router’s management interface and ensure that strong, unique passwords are in place.
4. Monitor Network Traffic: Regularly monitor network traffic for unusual activity that may indicate exploitation attempts.
Conclusion
The active exploitation of CVE-2024-0769 in D-Link DIR-859 routers underscores the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date hardware and software. Devices that have reached their end-of-life status pose significant security risks, as they no longer receive patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities. Organizations and individuals must proactively replace outdated equipment to safeguard their networks against emerging threats.
