CVE-2026-24449 identifies a vulnerability in ELECOM CO.,LTD.'s wireless router models WRC-X1500GS-B and WRC-X1500GSA-B, affecting all versions. The core issue is the use of weak initial passwords that can be easily calculated from system information available on the device, such as serial numbers or MAC addresses, which are often accessible without authentication. This flaw allows an attacker with network or physical proximity to derive the initial password and gain unauthorized access to the router's administrative interface. The vulnerability does not require user interaction or prior authentication, but the attack vector is local (physical or network proximity), limiting remote exploitation. The CVSS 3.0 score of 4.6 (medium) reflects a high confidentiality impact due to potential exposure of sensitive network data, but no impact on integrity or availability. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, and no patches have been released as of the publication date. This vulnerability could be leveraged to intercept or redirect network traffic, compromise connected devices, or pivot into internal networks. The weakness stems from poor credential management and predictable password generation, a common security oversight in IoT and networking devices. Organizations deploying these routers should be aware of the risk and implement compensating controls to prevent unauthorized access.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized access to network infrastructure, potentially exposing sensitive internal communications and data. Attackers exploiting this flaw could intercept traffic, manipulate network configurations, or use the compromised router as a foothold for further attacks within the network. Critical sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government agencies relying on these devices for secure connectivity may face confidentiality breaches. Although the attack requires local or network proximity, insider threats or attackers gaining physical access to facilities could exploit this vulnerability. The lack of patches increases the window of exposure. Additionally, compromised routers could be used in botnets or for launching attacks on other targets, amplifying the threat. The medium severity indicates that while the risk is not immediately critical, the potential impact on confidentiality and network security is significant enough to warrant prompt mitigation.

1. Immediately change the default initial passwords on all affected ELECOM WRC-X1500GS-B and WRC-X1500GSA-B devices upon installation to strong, unique credentials that cannot be derived from system information. 2. Restrict access to the router’s management interface by limiting it to trusted network segments or via VPN, preventing unauthorized local or network proximity attacks. 3. Disable remote management features if not required to reduce exposure. 4. Monitor network traffic for unusual activity that could indicate unauthorized access or lateral movement. 5. Maintain an inventory of affected devices and prioritize their replacement or firmware updates once patches become available. 6. Educate staff about the risks of physical access to network devices and enforce strict physical security controls. 7. If possible, segment networks to isolate critical systems from devices vulnerable to this issue. 8. Engage with ELECOM support channels to track patch releases or firmware updates addressing this vulnerability.