CVE-2024-7436 Overview
CVE-2024-7436 is a command injection vulnerability affecting D-Link DI-8100 routers running firmware version 16.07. The flaw resides in the msp_info_htm function within the msp_info.htm file. Attackers can manipulate the cmd argument to inject arbitrary operating system commands. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable and requires low-level privileges on the target device. The exploit details have been publicly disclosed, increasing the risk of opportunistic attacks against exposed devices. This weakness is classified under [CWE-77] Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command.
Critical Impact
Authenticated remote attackers can execute arbitrary commands on affected D-Link DI-8100 routers, enabling device takeover, traffic interception, and lateral movement into internal networks.
Affected Products
- D-Link DI-8100 router hardware
- D-Link DI-8100 firmware version 16.07
- Deployments exposing the web management interface to untrusted networks
Discovery Timeline
- 2024-08-03 - CVE-2024-7436 published to the National Vulnerability Database (NVD)
- 2026-06-17 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2024-7436
Vulnerability Analysis
The vulnerability exists in the handler responsible for processing requests to msp_info.htm on the D-Link DI-8100 router. The msp_info_htm function accepts a cmd parameter from user-supplied input and passes it into a command execution context without proper sanitization or neutralization of shell metacharacters. An attacker who can reach the administrative web interface and hold at least low-privilege credentials can inject additional operating system commands alongside the expected parameter value. Successful exploitation runs commands in the context of the router's web service, typically with elevated privileges on embedded Linux devices.
The EPSS score of 7.75% (94th percentile) indicates comparatively elevated interest in this vulnerability relative to other CVEs, consistent with the availability of public exploit disclosures on VulDB.
Root Cause
The root cause is missing input validation and command construction using unsanitized parameter data. The cmd argument flows directly into a shell invocation, allowing metacharacters such as ;, |, &, and backticks to break out of the intended command context. This is a classic instance of [CWE-77] where developer-controlled command strings are concatenated with attacker-controlled input.
Attack Vector
Exploitation occurs over the network by sending a crafted HTTP request to the router's management endpoint that serves msp_info.htm. The attacker supplies a malicious cmd value containing shell separators followed by arbitrary commands. Because the attack requires low privileges rather than none, the attacker must first obtain valid credentials or leverage default credentials. Once authenticated, the request can be issued using any standard HTTP client. Detailed exploitation walkthroughs have been published on VulDB #273521 and a supporting GitHub PDF Document.
Detection Methods for CVE-2024-7436
Indicators of Compromise
- HTTP requests targeting /msp_info.htm containing shell metacharacters such as ;, |, &&, or backticks in the cmd parameter.
- Unexpected outbound network connections originating from the router to attacker-controlled infrastructure.
- New or modified accounts, cron entries, or startup scripts on the router firmware.
- Web server access logs showing repeated requests to msp_info.htm from a single external source.
Detection Strategies
- Deploy network-based signatures that inspect HTTP traffic to router management interfaces for msp_info.htm requests with suspicious cmd values.
- Correlate authentication events on the router with subsequent requests to msp_info.htm to identify anomalous administrative activity.
- Monitor DNS queries and outbound connections from router IPs, which normally do not initiate arbitrary outbound sessions.
Monitoring Recommendations
- Forward router syslog and web access logs to a central logging platform for retention and analysis.
- Alert on management-interface access from outside approved administrative networks.
- Track firmware integrity and configuration changes on a scheduled basis.
How to Mitigate CVE-2024-7436
Immediate Actions Required
- Restrict access to the DI-8100 web management interface to trusted internal networks or VPN-only access.
- Rotate all administrative credentials on affected devices and disable any default accounts.
- Audit router configuration and outbound network activity for signs of prior exploitation.
- Isolate DI-8100 devices from sensitive network segments until a fix is deployed.
Patch Information
At the time of publication, no vendor advisory or firmware update from D-Link is referenced in the CVE record. Administrators should monitor the D-Link Security Advisories portal for a firmware release addressing CVE-2024-7436 and apply updates as soon as they become available. Additional technical context is available through VulDB CTI ID #273521.
Workarounds
- Disable remote management on the WAN interface and restrict web administration to a dedicated management VLAN.
- Enforce firewall rules that block inbound HTTP/HTTPS requests to the router from untrusted sources.
- Where feasible, replace end-of-support DI-8100 hardware with a supported platform that receives active security maintenance.
- Implement multi-factor authentication or a jump host in front of the router management interface where the network design permits.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
