CVE-2024-57232 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_wps_gen_pincode' function. This function is likely involved in generating WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) PIN codes for client interfaces. Due to insufficient sanitization, an attacker can inject arbitrary commands through the 'ifname' parameter, which the system then executes. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable over the network without requiring authentication or user interaction, as indicated by the CVSS vector (AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N). The CVSS base score is 6.5, categorizing it as a medium severity issue. The CWE classification CWE-77 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command) confirms that this is a classic command injection flaw. Exploitation could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary system commands with the privileges of the router's software process, potentially leading to information disclosure or integrity compromise, though availability impact is rated as none. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches or vendor advisories are linked yet. The vulnerability was reserved in January 2025 and published in May 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. Given the nature of the device—a consumer-grade WiFi router—this vulnerability could be leveraged to gain control over the device, manipulate network traffic, or pivot into internal networks if exploited successfully.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability depends on the deployment of NETGEAR RAX5 routers within their network infrastructure. While primarily a consumer device, some small and medium enterprises (SMEs) or branch offices may use these routers for internet connectivity. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the router, leading to potential interception or manipulation of network traffic, unauthorized access to internal resources, or use of the compromised router as a foothold for further attacks. Confidentiality and integrity of network communications could be compromised, especially if attackers manipulate DNS settings or inject malicious payloads. Although availability impact is rated low, persistent compromise could degrade network performance or cause intermittent connectivity issues. Additionally, compromised routers could be enlisted in botnets or used for distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, indirectly affecting organizational operations. The lack of required authentication and user interaction increases the risk, as attackers can exploit the vulnerability remotely without user awareness. European organizations with remote or unmanaged network devices are particularly at risk. The absence of known exploits suggests limited immediate threat, but proactive mitigation is critical to prevent future exploitation.

1. Immediate mitigation should include isolating affected NETGEAR RAX5 routers from critical internal networks until a patch is available. 2. Network administrators should monitor router logs and network traffic for unusual activity indicative of command injection attempts or unauthorized access. 3. Disable WPS functionality if not required, as the vulnerability is linked to the WPS PIN generation function. 4. Implement network segmentation to limit exposure of vulnerable routers to untrusted networks, especially the internet. 5. Employ firewall rules to restrict access to router management interfaces and related services to trusted IP addresses only. 6. Regularly check NETGEAR’s official channels for firmware updates or security advisories addressing this vulnerability and apply patches promptly once released. 7. Consider replacing vulnerable devices with models that have confirmed security updates if patching is delayed. 8. Conduct internal security awareness to ensure users do not connect unauthorized devices or expose routers unnecessarily. 9. Use network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) with signatures for command injection attempts targeting router management interfaces. 10. Maintain an inventory of network devices to quickly identify and remediate vulnerable hardware.