CVE-2024-57231 in RAX5
Summary
by MITRE • 05/05/2025
NETGEAR RAX5 (AX1600 WiFi Router) V1.0.2.26 was discovered to contain a command injection vulnerability via the ifname parameter in the apcli_do_enr_pbc_wps function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/01/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-57231 affects NETGEAR RAX5 AX1600 WiFi routers running firmware version V1.0.2.26 and potentially other affected models within the NETGEAR product line. This command injection flaw resides within the router's web interface handling mechanism, specifically within the apcli_do_enr_pbc_wps function that processes wireless network configuration parameters. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of the ifname parameter, which is used to specify wireless interface names during WPS enrollment processes. When an attacker submits malicious input through this parameter, the router fails to properly escape or validate the input before incorporating it into system commands, creating an opportunity for arbitrary command execution on the underlying operating system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic command injection flaw that aligns with CWE-77, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in commands. The affected function apcli_do_enr_pbc_wps appears to directly incorporate user-supplied ifname values into shell commands without adequate sanitization measures. This allows an attacker to append malicious commands that get executed with the privileges of the web server process, typically running with elevated system permissions. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the application layer and can be exploited through web-based interfaces without requiring physical access to the device or specialized network reconnaissance tools.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability represents a critical security risk that could enable remote attackers to gain full control over affected routers. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or the establishment of persistent backdoors. The affected routers may serve as entry points for broader network infiltration, especially in enterprise environments where multiple devices are interconnected. The vulnerability affects wireless network management functionality, which is commonly accessed by both legitimate users and attackers, making it particularly dangerous. The impact extends beyond simple command execution to include potential denial of service conditions, unauthorized network access, and the ability to modify router configurations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate firmware updates from NETGEAR, as the vendor has likely released patches addressing this specific flaw. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to router management interfaces and deploy network monitoring tools to detect suspicious command execution patterns. Network administrators should disable unnecessary wireless features and restrict access to router management interfaces to trusted IP addresses only. The implementation of web application firewalls and input validation controls can provide additional defense in depth. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.001 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell) and T1566 (Phishing) as attackers may leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access. Organizations should also consider implementing network access controls and regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar command injection flaws in other network infrastructure components. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation in embedded systems, particularly in IoT and networking equipment where the attack surface is often extensive and the impact of compromise can be severe.