CVE-2026-1457 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability classified under CWE-121, found in the TP-Link VIGI C485 V1 Web API. The flaw stems from insufficient input sanitization in the device's web interface, specifically in buffer handling routines. An attacker with authenticated access to the device's API can send specially crafted requests that overflow a stack buffer, leading to memory corruption. This corruption can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code remotely with elevated privileges, effectively compromising the device's operating environment. The vulnerability does not require user interaction beyond authentication, but it does require the attacker to have high privileges (PR:H) on the device, indicating that initial access or credentials are necessary. The CVSS 4.0 vector (AV:A/AC:L/AT:N/PR:H/UI:N/VC:H/VI:H/VA:H/SC:N/SI:N/SA:N) reflects that the attack is network-based but requires authenticated access with low complexity and no user interaction. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, as arbitrary code execution can lead to full device compromise, data leakage, or denial of service. No patches or known exploits are currently reported, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be considered a significant risk. The affected product, VIGI C485 V1, is typically used in surveillance and security monitoring, making it a critical asset in organizational security infrastructure.

For European organizations, the vulnerability poses a serious threat to network security and operational continuity. Compromise of VIGI C485 V1 devices could lead to unauthorized surveillance, data exfiltration, or use of the device as a pivot point for lateral movement within corporate or government networks. Given the device's role in security monitoring, exploitation could blind security teams to ongoing attacks or physical security breaches. The requirement for authenticated access somewhat limits the attack surface but does not eliminate risk, especially if credential management is weak or if attackers gain initial footholds through phishing or insider threats. The high CVSS score indicates potential for severe disruption, including loss of confidentiality of sensitive video feeds or control over security infrastructure. European organizations in sectors such as critical infrastructure, government, and large enterprises using TP-Link surveillance equipment are particularly vulnerable. The absence of patches increases the urgency for interim mitigations.

1. Immediately restrict access to the VIGI C485 V1 Web API to trusted networks and users only, implementing strict network segmentation to isolate these devices from general corporate networks. 2. Enforce strong authentication mechanisms and rotate credentials regularly to reduce risk of unauthorized access. 3. Monitor API access logs for unusual or anomalous activity that could indicate exploitation attempts. 4. Disable or limit remote management interfaces if not strictly necessary. 5. Engage with TP-Link for timely updates or patches and apply them as soon as they become available. 6. Consider deploying intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) tuned to detect buffer overflow exploitation patterns targeting this device. 7. Conduct regular security audits and penetration tests focusing on IoT and surveillance infrastructure. 8. Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for device management where supported. 9. Maintain an inventory of all affected devices to ensure comprehensive coverage of mitigation efforts.