CVE-2024-32332 identifies a stored Cross-site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the TOTOLINK N300RT router firmware version V2.1.8-B20201030.1539. The vulnerability exists in the Wireless Distribution System (WDS) Settings page of the router’s web-based management interface. Stored XSS occurs when malicious scripts injected by an attacker are permanently stored on the target system and executed when a user accesses the affected page. In this case, an unauthenticated attacker can inject malicious JavaScript payloads into the WDS Settings without requiring any privileges. When an administrator later accesses this page, the malicious script executes in their browser context, potentially allowing theft of session cookies, credentials, or manipulation of router settings. The CVSS 3.1 vector (AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N) indicates network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, user interaction required, scope changed, and low impact on confidentiality and integrity, with no impact on availability. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-79 (Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation). No official patches or exploits are currently reported, but the risk remains significant due to the router’s role in network security and management. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and output encoding in embedded device web interfaces.

The impact of CVE-2024-32332 primarily affects the confidentiality and integrity of the router’s management interface. If exploited, attackers can execute arbitrary scripts in the context of an administrator’s browser session, potentially stealing sensitive information such as login credentials or session tokens. This can lead to unauthorized access to the router’s configuration, enabling attackers to alter network settings, redirect traffic, or create persistent backdoors. Although availability is not directly impacted, the compromise of router settings can indirectly disrupt network operations. Organizations relying on TOTOLINK N300RT routers may face increased risk of network infiltration, data interception, and lateral movement within internal networks. The vulnerability’s exploitation requires the administrator to visit the maliciously crafted WDS Settings page, which may be delivered via phishing or social engineering. Given the widespread use of consumer and small business routers, the vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks against home offices, small enterprises, or branch offices where this device is deployed.

To mitigate CVE-2024-32332, organizations should implement the following specific measures: 1) Monitor TOTOLINK’s official channels for firmware updates addressing this vulnerability and apply patches promptly once available. 2) Restrict access to the router’s web management interface by limiting it to trusted internal networks and disabling remote management if not required. 3) Enforce strong administrator authentication and consider multi-factor authentication if supported. 4) Educate administrators to avoid clicking on suspicious links or accessing unknown WDS Settings pages, reducing the risk of triggering stored XSS payloads. 5) Employ network segmentation to isolate critical devices and reduce the impact of a compromised router. 6) Use web application firewalls or intrusion detection systems capable of detecting and blocking XSS payloads targeting router interfaces. 7) Regularly audit router configurations and logs for signs of unauthorized changes or suspicious activity. These targeted actions go beyond generic advice by focusing on access control, user awareness, and proactive monitoring specific to embedded device management interfaces.