CVE-2024-38666 in AC3000
Summary
by MITRE • 01/14/2025
An external config control vulnerability exists in the openvpn.cgi openvpn_client_setup() functionality of Wavlink AC3000 M33A8.V5030.210505. A specially crafted HTTP request can lead to arbitrary command execution. An attacker can make an authenticated HTTP request to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/22/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2024-38666 represents a critical external configuration control flaw within the Wavlink AC3000 M33A8.V5030.210505 router firmware, specifically affecting the openvpn.cgi component and its openvpn_client_setup() function. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the web interface, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate the configuration process of OpenVPN client setups. The vulnerability exists in the context of the router's web administration interface where user inputs are not properly filtered or escaped before being processed by underlying system commands. The flaw allows for command injection through crafted HTTP requests that are submitted to the vulnerable endpoint, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited remotely by authenticated users with administrative privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-94 categories, representing command injection and code injection weaknesses respectively. The flaw occurs when the openvpn_client_setup() function processes user-supplied parameters without adequate sanitization, enabling attackers to inject malicious commands that get executed within the context of the router's operating system. This typically involves passing unfiltered input directly to system command execution functions, allowing arbitrary code execution on the device. The vulnerability specifically targets the configuration interface of the OpenVPN client functionality, where parameters such as server addresses, authentication credentials, or configuration options are processed. The attack vector requires an authenticated session, meaning that an attacker must first obtain valid administrative credentials to exploit this vulnerability, though the impact remains severe once achieved.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with full system control over the affected router. Once exploited, the attacker can execute arbitrary commands with root privileges, potentially gaining access to the device's file system, modifying network configurations, establishing persistent backdoors, or using the device as a pivot point for further attacks within the local network. The vulnerability affects the router's ability to maintain network security integrity, as it allows unauthorized command execution that could lead to complete network compromise. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that many users may not regularly update their router firmware, leaving devices vulnerable to exploitation for extended periods. This vulnerability also impacts the router's role as a security gateway, potentially allowing attackers to bypass network security controls or intercept traffic passing through the device.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-38666 should include immediate firmware updates from Wavlink to address the command injection vulnerability in the openvpn.cgi component. Network administrators should implement strict access controls and ensure that only authorized personnel have administrative access to router configurations. Additional security measures include disabling unnecessary services such as OpenVPN client functionality when not required, implementing network segmentation, and monitoring for suspicious HTTP requests to the affected CGI endpoint. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation in embedded web interfaces, as recommended by the OWASP Top Ten and NIST guidelines for secure software development. Regular security audits of network infrastructure components and prompt patch management are essential to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in other router models or network devices that may exhibit similar command injection flaws. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous command execution patterns or unauthorized configuration changes that might indicate exploitation attempts.