CVE-2024-40890 Zyxel DSL CPE Devices: command or code injection
In plain words: The program treats text it receives as instructions instead of plain data. The attacker can run commands on the machine — often the whole device is taken over.
Confirmed exploited by CISA on · US federal patch deadline Mar 4, 2025
What to do
- Install Zyxel's security update for DSL CPE Devices. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships.
- Turn on automatic firmware updates and replace gear the maker no longer supports.
- Change default passwords and switch off remote administration and features you do not use.
- Do not put storage boxes or cameras directly on the internet — use the maker's app or a VPN.
Who is affected
Could reach you. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.
What's at risk: Taken over in bulk to join botnets, used to watch your traffic, or — for storage boxes — locked by ransomware.
The details
- Official name
- Zyxel DSL CPE OS Command Injection Vulnerability
- Product
- Zyxel DSL CPE Devices
- CISA description
- Multiple Zyxel DSL CPE devices contain a post-authentication command injection vulnerability in the CGI program that could allow an authenticated attacker to execute OS commands via a crafted HTTP request.
- Type of flaw
- Command or code injection (CWE-78)
- Confirmed exploited
- Feb 11, 2025
- US federal patch deadline
- Mar 4, 2025
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Answering about CVE-2024-40890 ·
Questions about CVE-2024-40890
Is CVE-2024-40890 being exploited?
Yes. CISA added CVE-2024-40890 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on Feb 11, 2025, which means there is reliable evidence of real-world attacks.
How do I fix CVE-2024-40890?
Install Zyxel's security update for DSL CPE Devices. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships. Turn on automatic firmware updates and replace gear the maker no longer supports.
Am I affected by CVE-2024-40890?
Only if you use Zyxel DSL CPE Devices. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.