How That Cheap Little WiFi Device Is Going To Betray You — SSRF Attacks
SSRF (Server-Side Request Forgery) attacks are no laughing matter and with the rising use of AI it could be possible that hackers boost their ability to infect devices on a scale larger than anything we have seen in the past. With hackers now easily able to monetize their hacks they now have an even bigger incentive to cause havoc by selling stolen data, ransoming computer files or even just crippling devices on networks.
Over time our reliance on the internet has grown exponentially and as it has grown so too has the device connectivity to make things networked in the office or smart home. From smart thermostats that learn our routines to home security systems that keep us safe, these devices have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. But while these devices have made our lives more convenient, they have also made us more vulnerable to cyberattacks.
The reason behind this vulnerability is simple: many basic WiFi devices, such as routers and smart home hubs, do not have adequate security measures in place to protect against SSRF attacks. This type of attack allows an attacker to send requests from a device to an internal network or an external network, potentially compromising sensitive information. This can occur when an attacker exploits vulnerabilities in the device’s software, such as unpatched security holes, to gain access and control over the device.
SSRF exploits can go undetected on your devices for months or indefinitely, they basically leave a back door open to your network from the inside allowing threats to come in later. Imagine a hacker being able to snoop on your network and decide when to do damage; is it while you are working to a massive deadline or is it after you back up all your files to the network drive?
This is particularly concerning because these devices are often connected to other sensitive systems, such as financial accounts, personal health data, and even critical infrastructure systems. In fact, SSRF attacks have been used to target everything from banks to power grids, causing widespread disruption and damage.
This week we saw Lexmark issue a security advisory with a fix to update 130 different models of printers which equates to millions of affected devices out in the wild. What’s sad was the person who found the vulnerability was offered “peanuts” meaning the next time someone finds a vulnerability like this they could end up selling the information to bad hackers for a much larger reward.
So, what can be done to address this issue? First and foremost, manufacturers must take responsibility for the security of their devices. This means investing in the development of secure software and hardware, and providing regular updates to keep these devices secure. Furthermore, they must implement security features, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and secure web protocols, to help protect against SSRF attacks.
Consumers can also play a critical role in protecting themselves from SSRF attacks. For example, they can keep their devices updated with the latest security patches, use strong, unique passwords, and be cautious when downloading software or apps from untrusted sources. They can also educate themselves on the risks associated with smart home devices and take steps to secure their networks, such as using VLANs (virtual local area networks) to segregate devices.
In conclusion, the vulnerability of basic WiFi devices to SSRF attacks is a serious issue that demands our attention. By raising awareness and taking the necessary steps to secure these devices, we can help protect our personal and sensitive information from falling into the wrong hands. We must work together — manufacturers, consumers, and government agencies — to ensure that our networks and devices are secure and that we are able to enjoy the benefits of technology without fear of cyberattacks.
