CVE-2026-24440 is a vulnerability identified in Shenzhen Tenda Technology Co., Ltd.'s W30E V2 router firmware versions up to and including 16.01.0.19(5037). The issue stems from an unverified password change mechanism within the device's maintenance interface, classified under CWE-620 (Unverified Password Change). Specifically, the firmware allows an attacker who can access the maintenance interface to change account passwords without providing the current password, effectively bypassing authentication controls. This flaw enables unauthorized users to gain control over the device by resetting credentials, potentially leading to full administrative access. The vulnerability has a CVSS 4.0 base score of 8.7, indicating high severity, with attack vector being network-based (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:L), and no user interaction (UI:N). The impact metrics indicate high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts (C:H, I:H, A:H). No patches or known exploits are currently reported, but the vulnerability's nature makes it a critical risk for affected devices. The lack of verification in password changes can facilitate unauthorized device takeover, enabling attackers to manipulate network traffic, disrupt services, or use the device as a pivot point for further attacks within an organization's network.

For European organizations, the exploitation of CVE-2026-24440 could lead to severe consequences. Unauthorized password changes on affected Tenda W30E V2 routers may result in attackers gaining administrative control over network gateways or access points. This can compromise network confidentiality by allowing interception or redirection of sensitive data, integrity by enabling malicious configuration changes, and availability by causing denial-of-service conditions. Organizations relying on these routers for critical network infrastructure or remote access could face significant operational disruptions. Additionally, compromised devices can serve as entry points for lateral movement, increasing the risk of broader network compromise. Given the widespread use of Tenda devices in small to medium enterprises and some consumer environments across Europe, the threat could affect a broad range of sectors including healthcare, finance, and government. The absence of authentication for password changes also raises concerns for compliance with European data protection regulations, as unauthorized access could lead to data breaches.

To mitigate CVE-2026-24440, organizations should implement the following specific measures: 1) Immediately restrict access to the maintenance interface of Tenda W30E V2 routers by limiting it to trusted management networks or via VPNs, preventing exposure to untrusted networks. 2) Monitor network traffic for unusual access patterns or unauthorized configuration changes on these devices. 3) Employ network segmentation to isolate affected routers from critical systems and sensitive data environments. 4) Regularly audit device configurations and logs to detect unauthorized password changes or access attempts. 5) Engage with Shenzhen Tenda Technology for firmware updates or patches addressing this vulnerability and plan prompt deployment once available. 6) Consider replacing affected devices with models that have robust authentication mechanisms if patches are delayed. 7) Educate network administrators about the risks of unverified password changes and enforce strict credential management policies. These targeted actions go beyond generic advice by focusing on access control, monitoring, and proactive device management tailored to the vulnerability's specifics.