CVE-2024-28027 is an OS command injection vulnerability classified under CWE-78, found in MC Technologies MC LR Router version 2.10.5 (QEMU). The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of special elements in the 'timer1' parameter within the router’s web interface I/O configuration functionality. An attacker with valid authentication credentials can send a specially crafted HTTP request containing malicious input in the 'timer1' parameter, which is processed insecurely, allowing arbitrary OS command execution at the system level. This can lead to complete compromise of the device, including unauthorized access, data manipulation, and disruption of network services. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require authentication, which suggests that attackers need to either compromise credentials or exploit weak authentication mechanisms. The CVSS score of 7.2 reflects the network attack vector, low attack complexity, high privileges required, and the critical impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. No patches or exploits are currently publicly available, but the vulnerability is published and should be considered a significant risk for affected deployments. The router’s use in network infrastructure makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it could be leveraged to pivot into internal networks or disrupt critical communications.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-28027 can be substantial, especially for those relying on MC LR Routers in their network infrastructure. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized control over the router, allowing attackers to intercept, modify, or block network traffic, potentially disrupting business operations and compromising sensitive data. Given the router’s role in managing network I/O configurations, attackers could manipulate routing or firewall rules, leading to lateral movement within corporate networks or denial of service conditions. Critical sectors such as telecommunications, manufacturing, and government agencies that depend on reliable network infrastructure could face operational outages or data breaches. The requirement for authentication reduces the attack surface but also highlights the importance of strong credential management and access controls. The absence of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive defense, but the high severity score indicates that the threat should be treated with urgency to prevent future exploitation.

1. Restrict access to the MC LR Router’s web interface to trusted management networks only, using network segmentation and firewall rules. 2. Enforce strong authentication policies, including complex passwords and multi-factor authentication where possible, to reduce the risk of credential compromise. 3. Monitor router logs and network traffic for unusual HTTP requests targeting the 'timer1' parameter or other suspicious activity indicative of exploitation attempts. 4. If possible, disable or limit the use of the vulnerable I/O configuration functionality until a vendor patch is available. 5. Regularly audit and update router firmware and software to the latest versions once patches addressing this vulnerability are released. 6. Implement network intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) with signatures or heuristics to detect exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability. 7. Educate network administrators about this vulnerability to ensure prompt recognition and response to potential incidents. 8. Consider isolating affected routers from critical network segments to minimize impact in case of compromise.