CVE-2023-48725 in RAX30
Summary
by MITRE • 03/07/2024
A stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability exists in the JSON Parsing getblockschedule() functionality of Netgear RAX30 1.0.11.96 and 1.0.7.78. A specially crafted HTTP request can lead to code execution. An attacker can make an authenticated HTTP request to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/12/2025
This vulnerability resides within the JSON parsing implementation of Netgear RAX30 router firmware versions 1.0.11.96 and 1.0.7.78, specifically affecting the getblockschedule() function. The flaw manifests as a stack-based buffer overflow that occurs when processing malformed JSON data through HTTP requests. This represents a critical security weakness classified under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, where insufficient bounds checking allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the program stack. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only an authenticated HTTP request to exploit, eliminating the need for complex attack vectors or unauthenticated access.
The technical implementation of this flaw stems from inadequate input validation within the router's web interface parsing logic. When the getblockschedule() function processes incoming JSON data, it fails to properly validate the length of input parameters before copying them into fixed-size stack buffers. This allows an attacker to craft a malicious HTTP request containing oversized JSON payloads that exceed the allocated buffer space. The overflow can overwrite return addresses, saved registers, and other critical stack data, potentially enabling arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript and T1210 Exploitation of Remote Services, as it leverages legitimate web service endpoints to execute malicious code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the router's administrative interface and underlying system resources. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to modify network configurations, install malware, or establish persistent backdoors within the network infrastructure. The affected firmware versions represent widely deployed consumer and small office networking equipment, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous for organizations relying on Netgear RAX30 routers. The authenticated nature of the attack means that an attacker would need valid credentials to exploit the vulnerability, but this access could be obtained through various means including password reuse, credential theft, or social engineering attacks.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Netgear to address the buffer overflow vulnerability. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to router management interfaces and enforce strict authentication controls. Additional protective measures include deploying web application firewalls to filter suspicious JSON payloads and monitoring network traffic for anomalous HTTP request patterns. Security teams should also conduct thorough credential audits to ensure that default or weak passwords are not in use, as the vulnerability requires authentication to exploit. Network administrators should consider implementing zero-trust principles for router access and establish regular vulnerability scanning procedures to identify similar weaknesses in other network infrastructure components. The remediation process must include comprehensive testing of updated firmware to ensure that the patch does not introduce regressions or compatibility issues with existing network configurations.