CVE-2024-5245 is a local privilege escalation vulnerability identified in the NETGEAR ProSAFE Network Management System, specifically version 1.7.0.34 x64. The root cause is the use of default MySQL credentials within the product installer, which are not changed or randomized during installation. This design flaw allows an attacker who already has the ability to execute low-privileged code on the affected system to leverage these default credentials to gain elevated privileges. By exploiting this vulnerability, the attacker can execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM-level privileges, effectively gaining full control over the system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-1392, which relates to the use of default credentials. The CVSS v3.0 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity due to the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, combined with relatively low attack complexity and no requirement for user interaction. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the vulnerability poses a significant risk because it can be chained with other vulnerabilities or initial access vectors to fully compromise affected systems. The vulnerability specifically affects the 1.7.0.34 x64 version of the NETGEAR ProSAFE Network Management System, a tool used for managing network devices in enterprise environments.

The impact of CVE-2024-5245 is substantial for organizations using the affected NETGEAR ProSAFE Network Management System version. Successful exploitation allows an attacker to escalate privileges from a low-privileged user to SYSTEM level, granting full control over the host machine. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive network management data, manipulation or disruption of network device configurations, and potential lateral movement within the network. The compromise of a network management system can severely affect network stability and security posture, potentially leading to widespread outages or data breaches. Since the vulnerability requires prior code execution at a low privilege level, it is often part of a multi-stage attack, increasing the risk for organizations with exposed or poorly secured endpoints. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of network management operations are all at risk, which can have cascading effects on the broader IT infrastructure.

To mitigate CVE-2024-5245, organizations should first verify if they are running the affected version 1.7.0.34 x64 of the NETGEAR ProSAFE Network Management System. Since no official patches are currently linked, immediate steps include changing default MySQL credentials if possible and restricting local access to the management system hosts to trusted administrators only. Implement strict access controls and monitor for any unauthorized local code execution attempts. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect and block suspicious activities. Network segmentation should be used to isolate management systems from general user environments. Additionally, organizations should follow NETGEAR advisories for any forthcoming patches or updates and apply them promptly once available. Regularly audit and harden configurations to eliminate default credentials and reduce attack surface. Finally, consider deploying multi-factor authentication and enhanced logging to detect potential exploitation attempts early.