D-Link DIR-868L Hardware Reconnaissance via Root Shell

Introduction After exploiting the CVE-2018-19988 vulnerability on my D-Link DIR-868L and gaining root shell access via telnet, I wanted to gather detailed hardware information to prepare for OpenWrt installation. With root access, I could explore the entire system, read kernel logs, dump configuration, and map out the hardware. This reconnaissance phase is critical before attempting any firmware modifications - you need to know exactly what hardware you’re dealing with. Access Method Using the telnet backdoor from the exploit: ...

November 11, 2025 · 7 min · 1480 words · LTe

Exploiting D-Link DIR-868L: CVE-2018-19988 Command Injection

Introduction I’m working on porting OpenWrt to my old D-Link DIR-868L Rev B router. Before diving into the OpenWrt build process, I wanted to understand the device better by analyzing its firmware and security posture. What I discovered was both fascinating and concerning - this router is critically vulnerable to a well-known command injection exploit. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This research was conducted on my own device for educational purposes and as part of preparing for OpenWrt installation. All security testing shown here was authorized. Never test vulnerabilities on devices you don’t own. ...

November 10, 2025 · 6 min · 1066 words · LTe