CVE-2021-38543
First published: Wed Aug 11 2021(Updated: )
TP-Link UE330 USB splitter devices through 2021-08-09, in certain specific use cases in which the device supplies power to audio-output equipment, allow remote attackers to recover speech signals from an LED on the device, via a telescope and an electro-optical sensor, aka a "Glowworm" attack. We assume that the USB splitter supplies power to some speakers. The power indicator LED of the USB splitter is connected directly to the power line, as a result, the intensity of the USB splitter's power indicator LED is correlative to its power consumption. The sound played by the connected speakers affects the USB splitter's power consumption and as a result is also correlative to the light intensity of the LED. By analyzing measurements obtained from an electro-optical sensor directed at the power indicator LED of the USB splitter, we can recover the sound played by the connected speakers.
Credit: cve@mitre.org
| Affected Software | Affected Version | How to fix |
|---|---|---|
| TP-Link UE330 Firmware | <=2021-08-09 | |
| TP-Link UE330 Firmware |
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Reference Links
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2021-38543?
CVE-2021-38543 is considered a medium severity vulnerability due to the potential for remote attackers to exploit the device.
How do I fix CVE-2021-38543?
To mitigate CVE-2021-38543, ensure that your TP-Link UE330 firmware is updated to a version post-2021-08-09.
What devices are affected by CVE-2021-38543?
CVE-2021-38543 affects the TP-Link UE330 USB splitter devices running specific firmware versions up to 2021-08-09.
What type of attack is demonstrated by CVE-2021-38543?
CVE-2021-38543 demonstrates a 'Glowworm' attack, where attackers can recover audio signals via observation of the device's LED.
Can CVE-2021-38543 be exploited remotely?
Yes, CVE-2021-38543 can be exploited remotely under specific conditions involving the device's power supply to audio-output equipment.
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