CVE-2023-46534 in TL-WR886N
Summary
by MITRE • 10/25/2023
TP-LINK TL-WR886N V7.0_3.0.14_Build_221115_Rel.56908n.bin was discovered to contain a stack overflow via the function modifyAccPwdRegister.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/17/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-46534 represents a critical stack overflow condition within the TP-LINK TL-WR886N router firmware version V7.0_3.0.14_Build_221115_Rel.56908n.bin. This issue manifests through the modifyAccPwdRegister function, which processes account password modifications within the device's web interface. The stack overflow occurs when the router fails to properly validate input parameters passed to this specific function, creating an exploitable condition that could allow remote code execution or system compromise. The vulnerability resides in the firmware's handling of user-supplied data during administrative password modification operations, making it particularly dangerous as it could be exploited by attackers with minimal privileges.
The technical flaw stems from improper input validation within the modifyAccPwdRegister function where buffer size checks are either absent or insufficient to handle maliciously crafted payloads. This weakness directly maps to CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent stack memory locations. The vulnerability allows an attacker to manipulate the program's execution flow by overwriting return addresses and potentially injecting malicious code into the stack. The specific nature of the function suggests that it handles administrative account credentials, making the attack vector particularly concerning for network security.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to organizations relying on TP-LINK TL-WR886N devices for network infrastructure. An attacker could exploit this condition remotely to gain unauthorized administrative access to the router, potentially leading to complete network compromise, data exfiltration, or lateral movement within the network. The attack surface extends beyond simple credential theft, as the compromised device could serve as a pivot point for more extensive attacks. Given the widespread deployment of this router model, the potential impact spans numerous small businesses, home networks, and potentially critical infrastructure environments where such devices remain operational. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access to the device, significantly increasing the attack surface and risk exposure.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate firmware updates from TP-LINK to address the stack overflow condition in the modifyAccPwdRegister function. Network administrators should implement network segmentation to limit the potential impact of a successful compromise, while also monitoring network traffic for suspicious activities related to the affected device. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help identify and block exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability. Additionally, organizations should consider disabling unnecessary administrative services and implementing strong authentication measures to reduce the attack surface. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1210 - Exploitation of Remote Services and T1078 - Valid Accounts, as it leverages legitimate administrative functions to achieve unauthorized access and privilege escalation. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should include verification of firmware versions and patch compliance to prevent exploitation of similar stack-based buffer overflow conditions in other network infrastructure components.