CVE-2023-33532

Vulnerability

A command injection vulnerability exists in the Netgear R6250 router running firmware version 1.0.4.48. The flaw resides in the handling of POST request parameters when an attacker has already obtained web management privileges. By injecting shell metacharacters into these parameters, an attacker can execute arbitrary operating system commands on the device [1].

Exploitation

An attacker must first gain valid web management credentials (e.g., via brute force, default credentials, or another vulnerability). With authenticated access to the router's web interface, the attacker sends a crafted POST request containing command injection payloads in one or more parameters. The router's backend processes the input without proper sanitization, passing the injected commands to a shell [1].

Impact

Successful exploitation grants the attacker shell-level access to the underlying operating system. This allows full control over the router, including the ability to modify configuration, intercept network traffic, install persistent malware, or pivot to other devices on the local network. The compromise is at the highest privilege level (root) [1].

Mitigation

As of the publication date (2023-06-06), no official firmware update or patch has been released by Netgear to address this vulnerability. The affected firmware version 1.0.4.48 remains unpatched. Users are advised to restrict access to the web management interface to trusted networks only, change default credentials, and monitor for future firmware updates from the vendor [2]. If possible, disable remote management and consider replacing the device if it reaches end-of-life.