CVE-2024-57230 is a command injection vulnerability identified in the NETGEAR RAX5 (AX1600 WiFi Router) firmware version 1.0.2.26. The flaw exists in the function apcli_do_enr_pin_wps, specifically via the 'ifname' parameter. Command injection vulnerabilities allow an attacker to execute arbitrary commands on the underlying operating system with the privileges of the vulnerable application. In this case, the vulnerability arises because the 'ifname' parameter is not properly sanitized before being used in system-level commands, leading to potential injection of malicious commands. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable over the network (AV:N), requires no privileges (PR:N), and no user interaction (UI:N), making it accessible to unauthenticated attackers. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.5, indicating a medium severity level, with impacts on confidentiality and integrity but no direct impact on availability. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-77 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command ('Command Injection')). There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no patches have been linked or released yet. The vulnerability was reserved in January 2025 and published in May 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. The NETGEAR RAX5 is a consumer-grade WiFi 6 router, commonly used in home and small office environments. The apcli_do_enr_pin_wps function relates to wireless client operations and WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), which is often targeted due to its network access implications. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the router, potentially leading to network compromise, interception of traffic, or pivoting to internal networks.

For European organizations, especially small businesses and home offices relying on NETGEAR RAX5 routers, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized command execution on the router, enabling attackers to intercept or manipulate network traffic, deploy malware, or establish persistent access. This can compromise confidentiality of sensitive communications and integrity of network operations. While availability impact is not directly indicated, attackers could leverage the router as a foothold to launch further attacks within the network. Given the router's role as a network gateway, compromise could affect connected devices and data flows. Organizations with remote or distributed workforces using these routers are particularly vulnerable, as attackers can exploit the vulnerability remotely without authentication or user interaction. The lack of a patch increases exposure risk until mitigations are applied. Additionally, attackers could use compromised routers to participate in botnets or conduct further attacks, amplifying the threat landscape for European networks.

1. Immediate mitigation should include disabling WPS functionality on the NETGEAR RAX5 router if possible, as the vulnerability is linked to the WPS-related function. 2. Restrict remote management access to the router to trusted IP addresses or disable it entirely to reduce exposure. 3. Implement network segmentation to isolate the router management interface from critical systems and sensitive data networks. 4. Monitor network traffic for unusual command execution patterns or unexpected outbound connections originating from the router. 5. Apply strict firewall rules to limit inbound traffic to the router, especially on ports related to router management and WPS services. 6. Regularly check NETGEAR’s official channels for firmware updates or patches addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once available. 7. Consider replacing vulnerable routers with models confirmed to be free of this vulnerability or from vendors with faster patch cycles if patching is delayed. 8. Educate users about the risks of using default or weak configurations and encourage strong administrative passwords and secure network practices.