CVE-2024-52018 is a command injection vulnerability identified in the Netgear XR300 router firmware version 1.0.3.78. The vulnerability resides in the system_name parameter of the genie_dyn.cgi CGI script, which is part of the router's web management interface. An attacker can craft a specially formed request to this endpoint, injecting arbitrary OS commands that the router executes with the privileges of the web server process. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-78 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command), indicating that input sanitization or validation is insufficient or absent. The CVSS v3.1 score is 8.0 (high), with an attack vector of adjacent network (AV:A), low attack complexity (AC:L), requiring low privileges (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), and impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). This means an attacker on the same local network or VPN could exploit this flaw without needing to trick a user or have elevated privileges. The lack of published patches or known exploits suggests this is a newly disclosed vulnerability, but the potential for severe impact is significant given the ability to execute arbitrary commands on the router. This could lead to device takeover, network traffic interception, or pivoting to internal networks.

The impact of CVE-2024-52018 is substantial for organizations using Netgear XR300 routers, especially in environments where these devices serve as critical network gateways or are deployed in sensitive or high-security contexts. Successful exploitation can lead to full device compromise, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands, potentially install persistent malware, intercept or manipulate network traffic, disrupt network availability, or use the compromised router as a foothold for lateral movement within the network. This threatens the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of organizational networks. Given the router’s role in home and small business networks, the vulnerability could also affect remote workers or branch offices, increasing the attack surface. The requirement for adjacent network access somewhat limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments with weak network segmentation or exposed VPNs.

To mitigate CVE-2024-52018, organizations should immediately assess their deployment of Netgear XR300 routers and isolate affected devices from untrusted networks. Network segmentation should be enforced to restrict access to router management interfaces to trusted administrators only. Employ VPNs with strong authentication and restrict VPN client access to management interfaces. Monitor network traffic for unusual requests to genie_dyn.cgi or unexpected command execution patterns. Since no official patches are currently available, consider temporary mitigations such as disabling remote management interfaces or restricting access via firewall rules. Engage with Netgear support channels to obtain updates or firmware patches as soon as they are released. Additionally, implement network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) with signatures targeting command injection attempts on Netgear devices. Regularly audit router configurations and logs for signs of compromise. Finally, educate network administrators about this vulnerability and ensure incident response plans include steps for router compromise scenarios.