CVE-2026-22224 is an OS command injection vulnerability classified under CWE-78, affecting TP-Link Archer BE230 v1.2 routers with firmware versions earlier than 1.2.4 Build 20251218 rel.70420. The flaw exists in the cloud communication interface, which is accessible after successful administrative authentication. Due to improper neutralization of special elements in OS commands, an authenticated attacker can inject arbitrary commands that the underlying operating system executes with high privileges. This vulnerability is one of multiple distinct injection issues in the product, each tracked separately. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 8.5, reflecting a high severity with attack vector over the network (remote), low attack complexity, no user interaction, and requiring high privileges (admin). The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability by allowing full administrative control, potentially enabling attackers to alter device configurations, intercept or redirect network traffic, or disrupt network services. No known public exploits or active exploitation in the wild have been reported yet. The affected product is primarily used in home and small office environments, but its compromise can serve as a foothold for lateral movement into larger networks. The vulnerability underscores the risks of cloud-based management interfaces that rely on authentication but lack sufficient input validation and command sanitization.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be significant, especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and home office users relying on TP-Link Archer BE230 routers. Exploitation could lead to full device compromise, enabling attackers to manipulate network traffic, intercept sensitive data, or launch further attacks within the internal network. This can degrade network availability and integrity, disrupt business operations, and expose confidential information. In sectors with strict data protection regulations like GDPR, such breaches could result in regulatory penalties and reputational damage. Additionally, compromised routers could be used as part of botnets or for launching attacks against other targets, amplifying the threat landscape. The requirement for administrative authentication limits exploitation to insiders or attackers who have obtained credentials, but phishing or credential theft remain common attack vectors. The cloud communication interface's exposure increases risk if remote management is enabled without proper network segmentation or access controls.

1. Immediately update affected TP-Link Archer BE230 devices to firmware version 1.2.4 or later, which addresses this vulnerability. 2. Disable cloud-based remote management interfaces if not strictly necessary, or restrict access via IP whitelisting and VPNs. 3. Enforce strong, unique administrative passwords and implement multi-factor authentication if supported to reduce risk of credential compromise. 4. Monitor network traffic for unusual command execution patterns or unexpected device behavior indicative of compromise. 5. Segment network infrastructure to isolate critical systems from devices with remote management capabilities. 6. Regularly audit device firmware versions and configurations to ensure compliance with security policies. 7. Educate users and administrators about phishing risks to prevent credential theft. 8. Employ network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) tuned to detect exploitation attempts targeting known TP-Link vulnerabilities. 9. Maintain an inventory of all network devices to quickly identify and remediate vulnerable units. 10. Engage with TP-Link support channels for timely security advisories and patches.