CVE-2022-38830 in RX9_Pro
Summary
by MITRE • 09/16/2022
Tenda RX9_Pro V22.03.02.10 is vulnerable to Buffer Overflow via httpd/setIPv6Status.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/19/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-38830 affects Tenda RX9_Pro routers running firmware version V22.03.02.10 and potentially other affected models. This buffer overflow vulnerability exists within the httpd web server component of the router's firmware, specifically in the setIPv6Status function. The flaw represents a critical security weakness that could enable remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected device. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation when processing HTTP requests directed to the setIPv6Status endpoint, allowing malicious actors to craft specially crafted payloads that exceed the allocated buffer space and overwrite adjacent memory regions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the router's web server implementation. When the httpd service receives a request containing IPv6 status parameters, it fails to properly validate the length of input data before copying it into fixed-size buffers. This classic buffer overflow condition creates opportunities for attackers to inject malicious code or manipulate the device's execution flow. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the application layer, meaning that remote exploitation does not require physical access to the device or specialized network positioning. Attackers can leverage this flaw through standard web browser interactions or automated tools that send crafted HTTP requests to the router's web interface. The buffer overflow can potentially lead to complete device compromise, allowing unauthorized users to gain administrative privileges, modify router configurations, or even install persistent backdoors.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-38830 extends beyond simple device compromise, as it can enable attackers to establish persistent access points within network environments. Once exploited, the vulnerability allows for arbitrary code execution, which could facilitate man-in-the-middle attacks, DNS hijacking, or the creation of botnets from compromised devices. The affected Tenda RX9_Pro models represent a significant attack surface given their deployment in residential and small office environments where network security may be insufficient. Network administrators face the challenge of identifying potentially compromised devices without direct access to the affected hardware, as the vulnerability can be exploited remotely over the internet. The lack of authentication requirements for the vulnerable endpoint means that exploitation can occur without prior knowledge of router credentials, making the attack surface particularly broad.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize firmware updates from Tenda, as the manufacturer is expected to release patches addressing the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement network segmentation to isolate affected devices and monitor for suspicious network traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security professionals should consider disabling unnecessary web services on the affected devices and implementing network access controls that limit exposure to external threats. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and may relate to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage. Regular vulnerability scanning and network monitoring should be implemented to detect potential exploitation attempts, while network administrators should maintain updated threat intelligence feeds to identify related attack patterns and ensure comprehensive protection against similar vulnerabilities in other network devices.