CVE-2026-2885 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the D-Link DWR-M960 router firmware version 1.01.07. The vulnerability resides in the function sub_469104 located in the /boafrm/formIpv6Setup file, which processes the submit-url argument. Improper input validation or bounds checking allows an attacker to craft a malicious request that overflows the stack buffer, potentially overwriting the return address or other control data. This can lead to arbitrary code execution on the device with elevated privileges, as the router firmware typically runs with high system rights. The attack vector is remote and does not require authentication or user interaction, making exploitation straightforward for attackers with network access to the device. The vulnerability has been publicly disclosed with an exploit available, increasing the risk of exploitation. The router model DWR-M960 is used in various regions for broadband connectivity, often in home or small office settings, making it a valuable target for attackers aiming to compromise network infrastructure, intercept traffic, or pivot into internal networks. The CVSS 4.0 score of 8.7 reflects the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, combined with ease of exploitation and no need for privileges or user interaction. No official patches have been linked yet, indicating that mitigation may require workarounds or vendor updates. The vulnerability highlights the critical need for secure input validation in embedded network devices.

The exploitation of CVE-2026-2885 can have severe consequences for organizations and individuals using the affected D-Link DWR-M960 routers. Successful exploitation allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially leading to full device compromise. This can result in unauthorized access to network traffic, interception or manipulation of data, disruption of internet connectivity, and use of the device as a foothold for further attacks within internal networks. The confidentiality of sensitive information passing through the router can be breached, integrity of network communications compromised, and availability of network services disrupted. For organizations relying on these routers for critical connectivity, this could lead to operational downtime, data breaches, and reputational damage. The public availability of an exploit increases the likelihood of automated attacks and widespread scanning for vulnerable devices. Given the router's deployment in home and small business environments, the threat extends to a broad user base, including consumers and SMBs that may lack robust security monitoring or patch management capabilities.

1. Immediate mitigation should focus on isolating the affected D-Link DWR-M960 devices from untrusted networks to reduce exposure to remote attacks. 2. Network administrators should implement strict firewall rules to restrict access to the router's management interfaces, especially blocking access to the /boafrm/formIpv6Setup endpoint from external networks. 3. Monitor network traffic for unusual requests targeting the submit-url parameter or signs of exploitation attempts. 4. Contact D-Link support or check official channels regularly for firmware updates or patches addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once available. 5. If patches are not yet available, consider replacing affected devices with models that have updated firmware or better security track records. 6. Employ network segmentation to limit the impact of a compromised router on critical internal systems. 7. Educate users and administrators about the risks and signs of exploitation to enable early detection and response. 8. Use intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) with signatures or heuristics capable of detecting exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability. 9. Regularly audit and update router configurations to disable unnecessary services and interfaces that could be leveraged by attackers.