CVE-2024-51007 identifies a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the Netgear XR300 router firmware version 1.0.3.78. The flaw exists in the wireless.cgi endpoint, specifically via the passphrase parameter, which is improperly handled, allowing an attacker to overflow the stack by sending a specially crafted POST request. This vulnerability falls under CWE-120 (Classic Buffer Overflow) and can be exploited remotely by an attacker with low privileges (PR:L) and network access (AV:A), without requiring user interaction (UI:N). Successful exploitation results in a denial of service (DoS) condition, crashing or destabilizing the device, thereby disrupting network availability. The vulnerability does not compromise confidentiality or integrity, as it does not allow code execution or data leakage. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.7, reflecting medium severity due to the impact on availability and the relatively low attack complexity. No known public exploits or patches are currently available, and the affected version is specifically 1.0.3.78 of the XR300 router firmware. The vulnerability highlights the need for secure input validation and memory management in embedded device web interfaces.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-51007 is denial of service, which can disrupt network connectivity and availability for organizations relying on the Netgear XR300 router. This can affect small to medium enterprises, home users, and potentially branch offices that use this device for wireless connectivity. Disruption of network services can lead to operational downtime, loss of productivity, and potential cascading effects on dependent systems. Since the vulnerability does not allow for code execution or data compromise, the risk to confidentiality and integrity is minimal. However, availability impacts can be significant in environments where continuous network uptime is critical, such as in healthcare, finance, or industrial control systems. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the vulnerability remains a concern until patched. Attackers with network access and low privileges can exploit this remotely, increasing the threat surface in poorly segmented networks.

To mitigate CVE-2024-51007, organizations should immediately restrict access to the Netgear XR300 device management interfaces, especially the wireless.cgi endpoint, to trusted networks and administrators only. Implement network segmentation to isolate management interfaces from general user networks and the internet. Monitor network traffic for unusual POST requests targeting wireless.cgi and deploy intrusion detection/prevention systems with custom signatures to detect potential exploitation attempts. Regularly check for firmware updates from Netgear and apply patches promptly once available. If possible, consider upgrading to newer router models or firmware versions that do not contain this vulnerability. Additionally, conduct security assessments of embedded device web interfaces to identify similar input validation issues proactively. Employ rate limiting and anomaly detection on management endpoints to reduce the risk of exploitation attempts causing denial of service.