CVE-2023-44021 in AC10U
Summary
by MITRE • 10/25/2023
Tenda AC10U v1.0 US_AC10UV1.0RTL_V15.03.06.49_multi_TDE01 was discovered to contain a stack overflow via the formSetClientState function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/08/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-44021 affects the Tenda AC10U wireless router firmware version US_AC10UV1.0RTL_V15.03.06.49_multi_TDE01, representing a critical stack overflow condition within the formSetClientState function. This flaw resides in the router's web-based administrative interface, where user-supplied input is processed without adequate validation or bounds checking. The stack overflow vulnerability occurs when the device receives malformed data through the formSetClientState parameter, which is typically used to manage client state information within the router's network configuration. The affected firmware version demonstrates a failure in input sanitization mechanisms, allowing attackers to craft malicious payloads that can overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. This vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a high-severity issue in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog due to its potential for arbitrary code execution and system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, as it creates a pathway for remote code execution and complete system takeover. When exploited, the stack overflow allows attackers to inject malicious code into the router's memory space, potentially enabling them to gain root access to the device. This compromise can lead to unauthorized network access, data interception, and the ability to modify router configurations without proper authentication. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects the administrative interface that is commonly accessible from the internet, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns. Network administrators face significant risk as compromised routers can serve as entry points for broader network attacks, potentially enabling lateral movement and persistent access to corporate or home networks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-44021 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Tenda, as the vendor has likely released patches addressing this specific vulnerability. Organizations should implement network segmentation to isolate affected devices and monitor for unusual network traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1210 Exploitation of Remote Services, highlighting the need for robust network monitoring and intrusion detection systems. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls to filter malicious requests targeting the vulnerable formSetClientState endpoint. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary services, implementing strong authentication mechanisms, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar issues in other network equipment. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date firmware and proper input validation in embedded systems, as these devices often operate with elevated privileges and serve as critical network infrastructure components.