CVE-2024-37644 identifies a critical vulnerability in the TRENDnet TEW-814DAP version 1 router firmware (FW1.01B01). The issue stems from a hardcoded password embedded in the /etc/shadow.sample file, which is a system file typically used to store hashed passwords for user accounts on Unix-like systems. This hardcoded password enables attackers to authenticate as the root user, granting them full administrative control over the device. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-259 (Use of Hard-coded Password) and has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 8.8, reflecting its high severity. The attack vector is network-based (AV:N), requiring low attack complexity (AC:L) and low privileges (PR:L), with no user interaction (UI:N) needed. The scope remains unchanged (S:U), but the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the presence of a hardcoded root password is a critical security flaw that could allow attackers to fully compromise the device, manipulate network traffic, install malware, or pivot to other systems within the network. The vulnerability affects a widely deployed consumer and small business router model, making it a significant risk for environments relying on this hardware for network connectivity and security.

The exploitation of this vulnerability allows attackers to gain root access to the affected router, leading to complete compromise of the device. This can result in unauthorized network access, interception and manipulation of network traffic, deployment of persistent malware, and potential lateral movement within corporate or home networks. The confidentiality of sensitive data passing through the router can be severely impacted, as attackers can eavesdrop or redirect traffic. Integrity is compromised as attackers can alter configurations or firmware, potentially disabling security controls. Availability can also be affected if attackers disrupt network services or brick the device. Organizations worldwide using the TRENDnet TEW-814DAP v1 router are at risk, particularly those without network segmentation or monitoring. The vulnerability's ease of exploitation and high impact make it a critical threat to network security and operational continuity.

1. Immediately identify and isolate all TRENDnet TEW-814DAP v1 routers running firmware FW1.01B01 within the network. 2. Monitor network traffic for unusual access patterns or unauthorized root login attempts targeting these devices. 3. Since no official patch is currently available, consider replacing affected devices with models from vendors that do not have this vulnerability. 4. Implement network segmentation to limit access to critical infrastructure and reduce the attack surface. 5. Use strong network access controls such as VPNs and firewall rules to restrict management interface access to trusted hosts only. 6. Regularly audit device configurations and logs for signs of compromise. 7. Once a vendor patch or firmware update is released, apply it promptly following a tested deployment process. 8. Educate network administrators about the risks of hardcoded credentials and enforce strict password management policies on all network devices. 9. Consider deploying intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) capable of detecting attempts to exploit this vulnerability. 10. Maintain an inventory of all network devices and their firmware versions to facilitate rapid response to vulnerabilities.