CVE-2022-41395 is a command injection vulnerability identified in the Tenda AC1200 Router Model W15Ev2 running firmware version V15.11.0.10(1576). The vulnerability arises from improper input validation of the dmzHost parameter within the setDMZ function. An attacker with low privileges (PR:L) and local access (AV:L) can exploit this flaw by injecting arbitrary commands through the dmzHost parameter, which the router executes with elevated privileges. This vulnerability does not require user interaction (UI:N) and affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the device, as indicated by the CVSS vector (C:H/I:H/A:H). The vulnerability is classified under CWE-78 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command), which typically allows attackers to execute arbitrary system commands. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the high CVSS score of 7.8 reflects the significant risk posed by this vulnerability if exploited. The attack vector is local, meaning an attacker must have some form of access to the router’s management interface or network segment to leverage this flaw. Given the nature of routers as critical network infrastructure, successful exploitation could allow attackers to manipulate network traffic, intercept sensitive data, or disrupt network services.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a considerable risk, especially for small and medium enterprises or home office environments that commonly deploy consumer-grade routers like the Tenda AC1200. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized command execution on the router, enabling attackers to alter network configurations, redirect traffic, or create persistent backdoors. This compromises network confidentiality and integrity, potentially exposing sensitive corporate data or enabling lateral movement within the network. Availability could also be impacted if attackers disrupt routing or firewall functions. Given the local attack vector, the threat is more pronounced in environments where physical or network access controls are weak or where remote management interfaces are exposed without adequate protections. The lack of a patch or mitigation from the vendor increases the urgency for organizations to implement compensating controls. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged as a foothold for broader attacks targeting European critical infrastructure or enterprises relying on these routers for network connectivity.

Since no official patch is currently available, European organizations should take immediate steps to mitigate the risk. First, restrict access to the router’s management interface by limiting it to trusted internal networks and disabling remote management if enabled. Implement strong authentication mechanisms and change default credentials to prevent unauthorized access. Network segmentation should be enforced to isolate vulnerable routers from critical systems and sensitive data. Monitoring network traffic for unusual patterns or command injection attempts targeting the dmzHost parameter can help detect exploitation attempts. If feasible, replace affected Tenda AC1200 W15Ev2 routers with models from vendors that provide timely security updates and have a strong security track record. Additionally, organizations should maintain up-to-date inventories of network devices and firmware versions to quickly identify and remediate vulnerable equipment. Employing network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) with signatures for command injection attempts can provide early warning. Finally, educating IT staff about this specific vulnerability and its exploitation methods will improve incident response readiness.