CVE-2024-51006 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the Netgear R8500 router firmware version 1.0.2.160. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of the ipv6_static_ip parameter within the ipv6_tunnel function. Specifically, when processing a crafted POST request containing a maliciously crafted ipv6_static_ip value, the router's software fails to properly validate input length or bounds, leading to a stack overflow condition (CWE-120). This overflow can cause the device to crash or reboot, resulting in a denial of service (DoS) that disrupts network connectivity for users relying on the router. The vulnerability requires an attacker to have low-level privileges (PR:L) and network access (AV:A), but does not require user interaction (UI:N). The scope is unchanged (S:U), meaning the impact is limited to the vulnerable component without affecting other system components. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.7, indicating medium severity, with the impact vector highlighting no confidentiality or integrity loss but high availability impact (A:H). No public exploits or patches are currently available, so the vulnerability remains a risk until mitigated. The vulnerability is particularly concerning for environments using IPv6 tunneling features on this router model, as the attack vector exploits this specific functionality.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-51006 is a denial of service condition that can disrupt network availability by causing the affected Netgear R8500 routers to crash or reboot. This can lead to temporary loss of internet connectivity for end-users and potentially disrupt business operations relying on continuous network access. Since the vulnerability does not affect confidentiality or integrity, data theft or manipulation is not a direct concern. However, the disruption of network services can impact productivity, especially in small to medium enterprises or home office environments where this router is deployed. The requirement for low privileges and network access means that internal attackers or compromised devices within the network could exploit this vulnerability. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently limits immediate risk, but the absence of patches means the threat persists. Organizations with critical reliance on IPv6 tunneling should be particularly cautious, as the vulnerability targets this feature.

To mitigate CVE-2024-51006, organizations should first monitor Netgear's official channels for firmware updates or patches addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once available. In the interim, network administrators should restrict access to the router's management interfaces and IPv6 tunneling features to trusted users and devices only, using network segmentation and access control lists (ACLs). Disabling IPv6 tunneling if not required can reduce the attack surface. Implementing intrusion detection or prevention systems (IDS/IPS) capable of detecting anomalous POST requests targeting the ipv6_static_ip parameter may help identify exploitation attempts. Regularly auditing router configurations and limiting administrative privileges can further reduce risk. Additionally, maintaining robust network monitoring to detect unusual router reboots or service disruptions can enable faster incident response. Finally, organizations should educate users about the importance of applying firmware updates and maintaining secure network practices.