Unpatched Broadcom Wi-Fi Flaw Lets Attackers in Range Run Code as Root on Routers
AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication
A security researcher disclosed a flaw in Broadcom’s Wi‑Fi Protected Setup (WPS) code that allows an attacker within radio range to execute arbitrary code as root on routers using Broadcom chips. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of fragmented WPS messages, enabling memory corruption and two exploit primitives: reading device memory and launching a remote shell over Wi‑Fi frames. Kaiser demonstrated the attack on Belgian ISP gateways, extracting the Wi‑Fi password from an Orange Belgium Askey TCG3000 and opening a reverse shell on a Proximus Sagemcom BBOX3V+. No CVE has been assigned and no patches exist for the older eCos‑based chips, which he calls a “forever day.” Millions of devices worldwide that embed the affected Broadcom code remain exposed still.
💡 Why It Matters
- · Nearby adversaries can gain full control of routers without any credentials, turning ordinary Wi‑Fi hotspots into covert entry points for network compromise.