CVE-2026-23699 is an OS command injection vulnerability identified in Ruijie Networks Co., Ltd.'s AP180(JA) series access points running firmware versions prior to AP_RGOS 11.9(4)B1P8. The flaw arises from improper neutralization of special elements in OS commands, allowing an attacker with high privileges to inject and execute arbitrary commands on the underlying operating system of the device. This vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require the attacker to have privileged access, which could be obtained through credential compromise or insider threat. Successful exploitation could lead to full compromise of the device, enabling attackers to manipulate device configurations, intercept or redirect network traffic, or disrupt network availability. The CVSS v3.0 base score is 7.2, reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, required privileges, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no public exploits are currently known, the vulnerability's nature and impact make it a critical concern for network security, especially in environments relying on these devices for wireless connectivity and network access control.

For European organizations, exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to significant operational disruptions and data breaches. Compromise of AP180 devices could allow attackers to intercept sensitive communications, manipulate network traffic, or create persistent backdoors within corporate or critical infrastructure networks. This is particularly concerning for sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and telecommunications, where network integrity and confidentiality are paramount. The vulnerability could also be leveraged as a pivot point for lateral movement within internal networks, increasing the scope of potential damage. Given the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, organizations face risks including data exfiltration, service outages, and reputational damage. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not diminish the urgency for remediation, as threat actors may develop exploits rapidly once the vulnerability is public.

European organizations should immediately verify if Ruijie AP180(JA) devices are deployed within their networks and identify firmware versions in use. The primary mitigation is to upgrade all affected devices to firmware version AP_RGOS 11.9(4)B1P8 or later, where the vulnerability is patched. Until patching is complete, restrict administrative access to these devices by implementing network segmentation and limiting management interfaces to trusted IP addresses. Employ strong authentication mechanisms, such as multi-factor authentication, to reduce the risk of privilege escalation. Monitor device logs and network traffic for unusual command executions or access patterns indicative of exploitation attempts. Additionally, conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing focused on network infrastructure to detect potential weaknesses. Establish incident response plans specifically addressing network device compromises to ensure rapid containment and recovery.