CVE-2024-40090 identifies an information disclosure vulnerability in the Boa webserver component embedded within the Vilo 5 Mesh WiFi System firmware versions up to 5.16.1.33. The Boa webserver improperly handles requests to the index page, allowing remote attackers to leak sensitive memory addresses related to the uClibc library and the system stack. This leakage occurs without requiring any authentication or user interaction, making it remotely exploitable over the network. The disclosed memory addresses can reveal the layout of the device's memory, which is typically randomized by ASLR to prevent exploitation of memory corruption vulnerabilities. By bypassing ASLR, attackers can increase the likelihood of successfully executing further attacks such as code execution or privilege escalation. However, this vulnerability itself does not allow direct code execution or denial of service; it only compromises confidentiality by leaking memory layout information. The vulnerability is tracked under CWE-319 (Cleartext Transmission of Sensitive Information) and has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 4.3, reflecting its medium severity. No patches or exploits are currently publicly available, but the exposure of memory addresses can be a critical step in multi-stage attacks against these devices.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-40090 is the compromise of confidentiality through leakage of memory layout information, which can facilitate more advanced attacks such as remote code execution or privilege escalation if combined with other vulnerabilities. Organizations deploying Vilo 5 Mesh WiFi Systems may face increased risk of targeted attacks, especially if attackers gain network access to the device's management interface. While the vulnerability does not directly affect integrity or availability, the information disclosure can weaken the device's security posture and enable attackers to bypass ASLR protections. This is particularly concerning in environments where these devices are used to provide critical network connectivity, such as enterprise offices, public WiFi hotspots, or smart home networks. Attackers could leverage this information to compromise the device firmware or pivot into internal networks. The lack of authentication requirement and remote exploitability increase the attack surface, especially if devices are exposed to untrusted networks or the internet.

To mitigate CVE-2024-40090, organizations should implement the following specific measures: 1) Immediately restrict access to the Vilo 5 Mesh WiFi System management interface by placing it behind firewalls or VPNs to limit exposure to trusted users only. 2) Monitor vendor communications for firmware updates or patches addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once available. 3) Employ network segmentation to isolate mesh WiFi devices from sensitive internal resources, reducing potential lateral movement if compromised. 4) Conduct regular security assessments and penetration tests on network infrastructure to detect unauthorized access attempts. 5) Disable or limit remote management features if not required, minimizing the attack surface. 6) Implement intrusion detection systems (IDS) to monitor for suspicious GET requests targeting the index page of the Boa webserver. 7) Educate network administrators about this vulnerability and encourage vigilance for unusual device behavior or network traffic patterns. These targeted actions go beyond generic advice by focusing on access control, monitoring, and proactive patch management specific to the affected devices and vulnerability characteristics.