CVE-2024-34166 in AC3000
Summary
by MITRE • 01/14/2025
An os command injection vulnerability exists in the touchlist_sync.cgi touchlistsync() functionality of Wavlink AC3000 M33A8.V5030.210505. A specially crafted set of HTTP requests can lead to arbitrary code execution. An attacker can send an HTTP request to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/22/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-34166 represents a critical os command injection flaw within the Wavlink AC3000 M33A8.V5030.210505 firmware, specifically affecting the touchlist_sync.cgi component and its touchlistsync() function. This vulnerability resides in the web interface of the wireless router, making it accessible through standard HTTP protocols. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the cgi script that processes touchlist synchronization requests, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary operating system commands on the affected device. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it allows remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it highly exploitable in network environments where such devices are deployed.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through carefully crafted HTTP requests that target the touchlist_sync.cgi endpoint. When the device processes these malformed requests, the input data flows directly into system command execution contexts without proper sanitization or validation. This injection occurs within the touchlistsync() function which likely constructs system calls using user-supplied parameters. The absence of proper input filtering mechanisms means that attackers can append malicious commands to legitimate parameters, causing the router to execute unintended system operations. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-77 and CWE-88, which classify command injection flaws where user-controllable data is improperly incorporated into system commands. The attack vector is particularly dangerous as it operates over HTTP, allowing attackers to remotely exploit the vulnerability from outside the local network without requiring physical access or prior authentication credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise of the affected Wavlink router. Successful exploitation enables attackers to gain full administrative control over the device, potentially allowing them to modify network configurations, redirect traffic, install malicious firmware, or use the device as a pivot point for attacks against other systems within the local network. The compromised router could serve as a persistent backdoor, providing attackers with long-term access to the network infrastructure. Additionally, the vulnerability may enable man-in-the-middle attacks, DNS hijacking, or other network-level compromises that can affect all devices connected to the compromised router. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1071.004 for application layer protocol, as it allows for arbitrary command execution through web-based interfaces.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-34166 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Wavlink, as the vendor has likely released patches addressing this specific vulnerability. Network administrators should implement strict firewall rules to restrict access to the router's web management interface, particularly blocking external access to the touchlist_sync.cgi endpoint. The principle of least privilege should be applied by disabling unnecessary web services and features on the router, reducing the attack surface available to potential exploiters. Network segmentation techniques can help isolate affected devices and limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. Regular security audits of network infrastructure should include verification of firmware versions and patch compliance. Organizations should also implement network monitoring to detect unusual traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and output encoding practices in web applications, emphasizing the need for secure coding standards that prevent command injection vulnerabilities in embedded systems and network devices.