CVE-2024-57231 is a command injection vulnerability identified in the NETGEAR RAX5 (AX1600 WiFi Router) firmware version 1.0.2.26. The vulnerability arises from improper input validation of the 'ifname' parameter within the 'apcli_do_enr_pbc_wps' function. This function is likely involved in the router's wireless Protected Setup (WPS) process, specifically related to the AP client interface. Command injection vulnerabilities allow an attacker to execute arbitrary system commands on the affected device by injecting malicious input into parameters that are passed to system-level commands without proper sanitization. In this case, the 'ifname' parameter is susceptible to such injection, enabling remote attackers to execute commands on the router without requiring authentication or user interaction. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.5, indicating a medium severity level, with the vector AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:L/A:N. This means the attack can be performed remotely over the network with low attack complexity, no privileges or user interaction needed, and impacts confidentiality and integrity to a limited extent but does not affect availability. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-77 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command ('Command Injection')). No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches or vendor advisories are listed yet. The vulnerability was reserved in early 2025 and published in May 2025, indicating it is a recent discovery. Given the nature of the vulnerability, an attacker could potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or manipulate router configurations, which could be leveraged for further network compromise or surveillance.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to those using the NETGEAR RAX5 AX1600 WiFi Router in their network infrastructure, including small to medium enterprises and home office environments. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of network configuration details or credentials, potentially enabling lateral movement within corporate networks or interception of sensitive communications. Although the impact on availability is not direct, compromised routers could be used as footholds for launching further attacks, such as man-in-the-middle attacks or persistent network surveillance. The medium severity score reflects limited direct damage but significant potential for stealthy compromise. Given the widespread use of NETGEAR routers in consumer and SMB markets across Europe, organizations relying on these devices without timely firmware updates may face increased risk. Additionally, compromised routers could affect compliance with European data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR) if personal or sensitive data is exposed or intercepted. The lack of authentication and user interaction requirements lowers the barrier for attackers, increasing the threat landscape for European networks using this device.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should first identify all instances of the NETGEAR RAX5 AX1600 WiFi Router within their networks. Immediate steps include isolating these devices from critical network segments and restricting remote management access. Since no official patches are currently available, organizations should monitor NETGEAR's security advisories closely and apply firmware updates as soon as they are released. In the interim, disabling WPS functionality on affected routers can reduce the attack surface, as the vulnerability is linked to the WPS-related function. Network administrators should implement network segmentation to limit the exposure of vulnerable devices and employ intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious command injection attempts targeting router management interfaces. Additionally, enforcing strict network access controls and using VPNs for remote access can help protect against unauthorized exploitation. Regularly auditing router configurations and logs for anomalies is also recommended. For long-term security, organizations should consider replacing vulnerable devices with models that have a stronger security track record and timely vendor support.