CVE-2026-7849
Summary
by MITRE • 07/30/2026
Due to improper neutralization of special elements, an unauthenticated remote attacker is able to inject a command into the system configuration which is subsequently executed as root.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/30/2026
This vulnerability represents a critical command injection flaw that exploits improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within system configuration processes. The weakness allows unauthenticated remote attackers to manipulate system parameters through specially crafted inputs that are not properly neutralized or escaped before being processed. The attack vector typically involves injecting malicious commands into configuration fields or parameters that are subsequently executed with elevated privileges, specifically root access, which grants complete system control. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration category CWE-77 which specifically addresses command injection flaws where external input is directly incorporated into operating system commands without proper sanitization. The operational impact is severe as attackers can execute arbitrary code on target systems, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistence mechanisms establishment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation routines that fail to properly escape or filter special characters used in command execution contexts. Attackers exploit this by injecting command delimiters such as semicolons, pipes, or other shell metacharacters that cause the system to interpret additional malicious commands beyond the intended operation. When configuration management systems process user-supplied inputs without proper sanitization, these inputs become part of the execution chain, allowing attackers to execute commands with the privileges of the running process, which in this case is root. The vulnerability exists at multiple layers including web application interfaces, system configuration utilities, and API endpoints that accept parameterized input for system operations.
The attack surface for this vulnerability encompasses any system component that accepts user input for configuration purposes and subsequently executes this input as commands without proper validation. This includes network device management interfaces, web-based system administration panels, API endpoints used for configuration changes, and automated deployment systems that process user inputs. The unauthenticated nature of the attack means that no prior credentials are required to exploit the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous in exposed services or applications. From an adversary perspective, this represents a high-value target within the attack chain as defined by the mitre attack framework under technique T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter execution. The ability to execute commands with root privileges enables attackers to establish persistent access, escalate privileges further, and conduct comprehensive reconnaissance activities.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization mechanisms that properly neutralize special characters before any processing occurs. This includes employing parameterized queries, using allow-list validation for acceptable inputs, and implementing proper command execution frameworks that prevent shell interpretation of user-supplied data. Organizations should deploy web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious input patterns, implement least privilege principles for system services, and conduct regular security testing including penetration testing and vulnerability scanning. Additionally, the principle of defense in depth should be applied through network segmentation, monitoring for unusual command execution patterns, and maintaining up-to-date system configurations with proper access controls. The remediation process must include thorough code reviews focusing on input handling routines, implementation of secure coding practices, and regular security training for development teams to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future releases.