CVE-2023-47006 in RT-AX57
Summary
by MITRE • 11/09/2023
An issue in ASUS RT-AX57 v.3.0.0.4_386_52041 allows a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code via a crafted request to the lan_ipaddr field in the sub_6FC74 function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/05/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-47006 affects ASUS RT-AX57 routers running firmware version 3.0.0.4_386_52041 and potentially other affected models within the ASUS router product line. This represents a critical remote code execution flaw that enables attackers to gain unauthorized control over the affected devices. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the router's web interface handling mechanism, specifically targeting the lan_ipaddr field parameter within the sub_6FC74 function. The flaw allows an unauthenticated remote attacker to craft malicious HTTP requests that can trigger arbitrary code execution on the affected device.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a buffer overflow or injection flaw within the router's firmware code where the lan_ipaddr parameter is processed without adequate sanitization or bounds checking. When a crafted request is sent to the router's web server component, the sub_6FC74 function fails to properly validate or sanitize the input data passed through the lan_ipaddr field. This processing error creates an exploitable condition where attacker-controlled input can be interpreted as executable code rather than benign data. The vulnerability falls under CWE-121 which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and potentially CWE-78 which covers improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands. The attack vector requires only network connectivity to the affected router's web interface, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or authentication credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized access to the router's web interface. Once successfully exploited, the attacker gains full control over the affected router, enabling them to modify network configurations, redirect traffic through malicious proxies, install persistent backdoors, or use the device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the local network. The compromised router can be used to launch further attacks against internal network hosts, create botnet nodes for distributed denial-of-service attacks, or serve as a command and control server for other malicious activities. The router's position as a central network gateway makes it a particularly attractive target for cybercriminals and nation-state actors seeking to establish persistent access to corporate or residential networks. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter and T1021.001 for remote services, as it enables both remote code execution and network service manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-47006 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from ASUS to address the root cause of the vulnerability. Network administrators should implement network segmentation to isolate affected devices and monitor for suspicious traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The use of intrusion detection systems with signatures specific to this vulnerability can help identify exploitation attempts, while disabling unnecessary remote management services and implementing strong network access controls can reduce the attack surface. Regular security audits of network infrastructure should include verification of firmware versions and patch status for all router models. Additionally, implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous behavior patterns associated with router compromise, such as unexpected routing changes or unusual traffic flows, provides an additional layer of defense against exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider deploying network access control measures that can prevent unauthorized devices from connecting to the network and implement comprehensive backup and recovery procedures to ensure rapid restoration of network services in case of successful exploitation.