CVE-2024-5297 is an OS command injection vulnerability identified in the D-Link D-View network management software, specifically version 2.0.1.28. The flaw resides in the executeWmicCmd method, where user input is not properly sanitized before being passed to system calls, allowing attackers to inject arbitrary OS commands. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-78, indicating improper neutralization of special elements in OS commands. Although the vulnerability nominally requires authentication, the authentication mechanism can be bypassed, effectively enabling unauthenticated remote code execution. Exploitation results in code execution with root privileges, granting attackers full control over the affected system. The CVSS v3.0 score is 8.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and no user interaction required. No patches or public exploits have been published yet, but the vulnerability was disclosed by the Zero Day Initiative (ZDI) under identifier ZDI-CAN-21821. The lack of input validation in a critical command execution path makes this a severe threat to organizations relying on D-View for network monitoring and management.

The impact of CVE-2024-5297 is severe, as successful exploitation allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands with root privileges on affected D-Link D-View installations. This can lead to complete system compromise, including unauthorized access to sensitive network management data, disruption of network monitoring services, and potential pivoting to other internal systems. The compromise of network management tools can undermine an organization's ability to detect and respond to other threats, increasing overall risk exposure. Confidentiality is at risk due to potential data theft; integrity is compromised as attackers can alter configurations or logs; availability may be affected by service disruption or destruction of critical files. The ability to bypass authentication exacerbates the threat, making it easier for attackers to exploit the vulnerability remotely. Organizations worldwide using this product in their network infrastructure face significant operational and security risks.

To mitigate CVE-2024-5297, organizations should immediately verify if they are running D-Link D-View version 2.0.1.28 or earlier and prioritize upgrading to a patched version once available. In the absence of an official patch, restrict network access to the D-View management interface using firewalls or VPNs to limit exposure to trusted administrators only. Implement strict network segmentation to isolate management systems from general user networks and the internet. Monitor logs and network traffic for unusual command execution patterns or authentication bypass attempts. Employ application-layer firewalls or intrusion prevention systems capable of detecting command injection attempts targeting D-View. Review and harden authentication mechanisms to prevent bypass, including enforcing strong credentials and multi-factor authentication if supported. Regularly audit and update all network management tools and maintain an incident response plan tailored to potential compromises of critical infrastructure components.