CVE-2024-35522
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary commands on Netgear EX3700 AC750 WiFi Range Extender Essentials Edition devices. Attackers with access to the device's web interface can inject malicious commands through specific parameters, potentially gaining full control of the device. This affects users running vulnerable firmware versions.
💻 Affected Systems
- Netgear EX3700 AC750 WiFi Range Extender Essentials Edition
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete device compromise allowing attackers to install persistent backdoors, intercept network traffic, pivot to other network devices, or use the device as part of a botnet.
Likely Case
Local network attackers gaining administrative control of the range extender to modify network settings, intercept traffic, or use it as a foothold for further attacks.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if device is isolated from critical networks and strong authentication is enforced.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires authentication but the attack is straightforward once authenticated. The GitHub reference contains technical details.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: 1.0.0.98 or later
Vendor Advisory: https://www.netgear.com/about/security/
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Log into the Netgear EX3700 web interface. 2. Navigate to Advanced > Administration > Firmware Update. 3. Check for updates and install firmware version 1.0.0.98 or later. 4. Reboot the device after update completes.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable web interface access
allPrevent access to the vulnerable web interface by disabling remote administration and restricting local access
Network segmentation
allIsolate the range extender on a separate VLAN to limit potential lateral movement
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Change default credentials and implement strong authentication
- Isolate device from critical network segments and monitor for suspicious activity
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check firmware version in web interface: Advanced > Administration > Firmware Update. If version is below 1.0.0.98, device is vulnerable.Check Version:
No CLI command available. Must check via web interface.Verify Fix Applied:
Confirm firmware version shows 1.0.0.98 or higher after update. Test that command injection is no longer possible.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual POST requests to operating_mode.cgi with manipulated parameters
- Multiple failed authentication attempts followed by successful login
Network Indicators:
- Unusual outbound connections from the range extender
- Traffic patterns suggesting command and control communication
SIEM Query:
source="netgear-extender" AND (url="*operating_mode.cgi*" AND (param="*ap_mode*" OR param="*ap_24g_manual*" OR param="*ap_24g_manual_sec*"))