CVE-2024-57233
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on NETGEAR RAX5 routers by injecting malicious commands through the iface parameter in the vif_disable function. Attackers can gain full control of the router, potentially compromising the entire network. All users running the vulnerable firmware version are affected.
💻 Affected Systems
- NETGEAR RAX5 (AX1600 WiFi Router)
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete router compromise leading to full network takeover, credential theft, malware deployment across all connected devices, and persistent backdoor installation.
Likely Case
Router compromise allowing attackers to intercept network traffic, modify DNS settings, deploy malware to connected devices, and use the router as a pivot point for further attacks.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if router is behind firewall with strict inbound rules, though internal network devices remain at risk if attacker gains access.
🎯 Exploit Status
Public proof-of-concept available on GitHub. Exploitation requires network access to the router's web interface.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Unknown
Vendor Advisory: Unknown
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Check NETGEAR support site for firmware updates 2. Download latest firmware 3. Log into router admin interface 4. Navigate to Advanced > Administration > Firmware Update 5. Upload and install new firmware 6. Reboot router
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable Remote Management
allPrevents external attackers from accessing the vulnerable web interface
Restrict Admin Interface Access
allLimit admin interface access to specific trusted IP addresses only
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Replace router with different model or vendor
- Place router behind dedicated firewall with strict inbound rules
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check router firmware version in admin interface at Advanced > Administration > Firmware UpdateCheck Version:
curl -s http://routerlogin.com/currentsetting.htm | grep FirmwareVerify Fix Applied:
Verify firmware version is no longer v1.0.2.26 and test if command injection is possible📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual command execution in router logs
- Multiple failed login attempts followed by successful access
- Suspicious iface parameter values in web requests
Network Indicators:
- Unusual outbound connections from router
- DNS changes to malicious servers
- Unexpected port scans originating from router
SIEM Query:
source="router_logs" AND ("vif_disable" OR "iface=" AND ("|" OR ";" OR "$" OR "`"))