CVE-2024-57226 is a command injection vulnerability identified in the Linksys E7350 router firmware version 1.1.00.032. The vulnerability resides in the vif_enable function, specifically through improper sanitization of the iface parameter. This flaw allows an attacker with low-level privileges and access to the local network to inject and execute arbitrary system commands on the device. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-77 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command), indicating that user-supplied input is not properly sanitized before being passed to system-level commands. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.0, reflecting high severity due to the vulnerability's ability to compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability without requiring user interaction. The attack vector is adjacent network (AV:A), meaning the attacker must be on the same local or adjacent network segment. Privileges required are low (PR:L), and no user interaction is needed (UI:N). The vulnerability scope is unchanged (S:U), meaning the impact is limited to the vulnerable component. Although no public exploits have been reported, the potential for full device compromise is significant, allowing attackers to manipulate router configurations, intercept or redirect traffic, and potentially pivot into internal networks. No patches or firmware updates have been published at the time of disclosure, increasing the urgency for interim mitigations.

The exploitation of CVE-2024-57226 can have severe consequences for organizations and individuals using the Linksys E7350 router. Successful command injection can lead to complete device takeover, allowing attackers to alter router configurations, disable security features, or install persistent malware. This compromises network confidentiality by enabling interception or redirection of traffic, integrity by modifying data flows or configurations, and availability by causing device crashes or denial of service. For organizations, this can result in exposure of sensitive internal communications, disruption of business operations, and potential lateral movement into corporate networks. The requirement for only low privileges and no user interaction lowers the barrier for exploitation, increasing risk. Although no known exploits are currently in the wild, the public disclosure of the vulnerability may prompt attackers to develop exploits rapidly. The lack of available patches further exacerbates the risk, making timely mitigation critical to prevent exploitation.

Given the absence of official patches, organizations should implement immediate compensating controls. First, restrict access to the router's management interface to trusted administrators only, ideally via VLAN segmentation or firewall rules limiting access to the local network segment. Disable remote management features if enabled. Monitor network traffic for unusual activity or command execution attempts targeting the vif_enable function or iface parameter. Employ network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) with updated signatures to detect potential exploitation attempts. Regularly audit router configurations and logs for unauthorized changes. If possible, replace or upgrade affected devices to models with patched firmware once available. Educate network administrators about the vulnerability and the importance of minimizing exposure of management interfaces. Finally, maintain an inventory of affected devices to ensure comprehensive coverage of mitigation efforts.