CVE-2023-49435 in AX9
Summary
by MITRE • 12/07/2023
Tenda AX9 V22.03.01.46 is vulnerable to command injection.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/09/2026
The Tenda AX9 router model running firmware version V22.03.01.46 contains a critical command injection vulnerability that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the affected device. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the web administration interface, specifically in parameters that handle network configuration data. The flaw exists in the device's handling of user-supplied input that is directly passed to system commands without proper sanitization or escaping mechanisms. Security researchers identified that certain parameters in the router's web interface accept malicious payloads that get interpreted and executed by the underlying operating system, creating a direct pathway for unauthorized command execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper handling of input fields within the router's web administration portal. When administrators or attackers submit data through specific web forms or API endpoints, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before incorporating it into system commands. This creates a classic command injection scenario where malicious payloads can be crafted to execute arbitrary shell commands on the device. The vulnerability affects the router's ability to process network configuration parameters, particularly those related to DNS settings, firewall rules, and network interface configurations. The lack of proper input sanitization allows attackers to inject command separators and additional shell commands that bypass normal execution boundaries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching for network administrators and end users. An unauthenticated remote attacker can leverage this command injection flaw to gain complete control over the affected router, potentially leading to full network compromise. The attacker can execute commands with the privileges of the web server process, which typically runs with elevated permissions on the device. This access enables various malicious activities including but not limited to data exfiltration, network reconnaissance, port forwarding, DNS hijacking, and establishing persistent backdoors. The vulnerability also allows for complete network disruption through commands that can modify routing tables, disable security features, or render the device inoperable. The attack surface extends beyond just the immediate device as compromised routers can serve as entry points for lateral movement within corporate networks or as part of larger botnet operations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate firmware updates from Tenda, which would contain proper input validation and sanitization measures to prevent command injection attacks. Network administrators should implement network segmentation and monitoring to detect anomalous command execution patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The use of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help identify and block malicious payloads targeting this specific vulnerability. Additionally, administrators should disable unnecessary administrative interfaces and services, implement strong authentication mechanisms, and regularly audit network configurations for signs of compromise. Organizations should also consider implementing network access controls and monitoring for unusual outbound connections that might indicate command execution. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-88 categories, which specifically address command injection flaws in input validation and execution contexts, and maps to ATT&CK techniques such as T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1021.001 for remote services for lateral movement. Given the severity of command injection vulnerabilities, immediate remediation is critical to prevent exploitation and maintain network security posture.