CVE-2022-37800 in AC1206
Summary
by MITRE • 08/25/2022
Tenda AC1206 V15.03.06.23 was discovered to contain a stack overflow via the list parameter at the function fromSetRouteStatic.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/01/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-37800 affects the Tenda AC1206 router model running firmware version V15.03.06.23 and represents a critical stack overflow condition that arises within the web interface handling mechanism. This flaw manifests specifically within the fromSetRouteStatic function when processing the list parameter, creating a potential entry point for malicious actors to exploit the device's network management interface. The stack overflow vulnerability occurs when the device fails to properly validate or sanitize input data passed through the list parameter, allowing an attacker to manipulate memory allocation and potentially execute arbitrary code on the affected system. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, which is classified as a fundamental memory safety issue that has been consistently documented in cybersecurity literature as one of the most dangerous classes of vulnerabilities due to its potential for remote code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to encompass full system compromise capabilities. When exploited, the stack overflow can enable attackers to gain unauthorized administrative access to the router, potentially allowing them to modify network configurations, redirect traffic, install malware, or establish persistent backdoors within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects a consumer-grade router model that is widely deployed in residential and small office environments, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability through web-based interfaces, requiring no physical access to the device and potentially allowing remote exploitation from outside the network perimeter. The implications for network security are severe, as compromised routers can serve as entry points for broader network infiltration, enabling attackers to pivot to other connected devices and systems within the local network.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly under the T1059.007 technique for command and scripting interpreter and T1021.001 for remote services. The affected Tenda AC1206 device represents a common target for botnet recruitment and network reconnaissance activities, as these devices often lack proper security hardening and are frequently left with default credentials. Organizations and individuals should immediately implement mitigations including firmware updates from the vendor, network segmentation to isolate affected devices, and monitoring for unusual network traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of input validation and secure coding practices, as proper bounds checking and parameter sanitization would have prevented the stack overflow condition from occurring in the first place. Given the nature of the flaw, network administrators should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems and regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar issues in other network equipment that may be susceptible to analogous stack overflow vulnerabilities in their firmware implementations.