CVE-2026-24498 is a vulnerability identified in several EFM-Networks ipTIME router models (T5008, AX2004M, AX3000Q, AX6000M) running firmware versions up to 15.26.8. The issue is categorized under CWE-200, indicating exposure of sensitive information to unauthorized actors. The vulnerability enables authentication bypass, allowing an attacker without prior privileges or user interaction to access sensitive data stored or processed by the device. The CVSS 4.0 vector (AV:A/AC:L/AT:P/PR:N/UI:N/VC:H/VI:N/VA:N/SC:N/SI:N/SA:N) indicates that the attack requires adjacent network access (local network), has low attack complexity, partial attack type (partial bypass), no privileges required, no user interaction, and impacts confidentiality with high scope, but no impact on integrity or availability. The flaw likely stems from improper access controls or flawed authentication mechanisms in the router's management interface or services. No patches or exploits are currently publicly available, but the vulnerability is published and should be addressed promptly. The affected devices are widely used in South Korea and some other Asian markets, making regional exposure significant. The vulnerability could allow attackers on the same network segment to extract sensitive configuration or user data, potentially enabling further attacks or privacy violations.

The primary impact of CVE-2026-24498 is the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information from affected ipTIME routers. This can lead to leakage of network configuration details, credentials, or other private data, which attackers could leverage for lateral movement, persistent access, or further exploitation. While the vulnerability does not directly compromise device integrity or availability, the confidentiality breach can undermine network security and user privacy. Organizations relying on these routers, especially in enterprise or critical infrastructure environments, may face increased risk of targeted attacks if attackers gain footholds via this vulnerability. The requirement for adjacent network access limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, as attackers could gain local network access through compromised devices or insider threats. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not preclude future active exploitation. Overall, the vulnerability poses a moderate threat to confidentiality and network security posture.

1. Monitor EFM-Networks official channels for firmware updates addressing CVE-2026-24498 and apply patches immediately upon release. 2. Until patches are available, restrict access to router management interfaces to trusted administrators only, preferably via secure management VLANs or out-of-band management networks. 3. Implement strict network segmentation to isolate ipTIME devices from untrusted or guest networks, minimizing adjacent network exposure. 4. Disable any unnecessary services or remote management features on affected routers to reduce attack surface. 5. Employ network monitoring and intrusion detection systems to identify unusual access patterns or attempts to access router management interfaces. 6. Educate network administrators about the vulnerability and enforce strong authentication and credential management practices. 7. Consider replacing affected devices with alternative hardware if timely patching is not feasible and risk is unacceptable. 8. Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments focusing on network infrastructure devices.