CVE-2023-51136 in X2000R Gh
Summary
by MITRE • 12/30/2023
TOTOLINK X2000R Gh v1.0.0-B20230221.0948.web was discovered to contain a stack overflow via the function formRebootSchedule.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-51136 represents a critical stack overflow flaw within the TOTOLINK X2000R Gh v1.0.0-B20230221.0948 firmware version. This issue manifests through the formRebootSchedule function, which processes user input without adequate validation or bounds checking. The stack overflow occurs when maliciously crafted input is passed to this function, potentially allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous in embedded systems and network devices where memory corruption can lead to arbitrary code execution or system crashes.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input handling within the web interface of the router's firmware. When users interact with the reboot scheduling functionality through the web management portal, the formRebootSchedule function fails to validate the length or content of incoming parameters. This lack of input sanitization creates an exploitable condition where an attacker can craft a payload that exceeds the allocated stack buffer size, causing a buffer overflow. The Common Weakness Enumeration classification for this issue aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent stack memory locations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios. Attackers exploiting this stack overflow could potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, effectively gaining control over the entire router system. This compromise would allow unauthorized access to the network, enabling man-in-the-middle attacks, DNS hijacking, or the installation of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects the web-based management interface, making exploitation relatively straightforward for attackers who can access the device's administrative portal. According to the MITRE ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving command and control communications and privilege escalation, as compromised routers can serve as stepping stones for broader network infiltration.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-51136 require immediate firmware updates from TOTOLINK, as the vendor must address the buffer overflow in the formRebootSchedule function through proper input validation and bounds checking. Network administrators should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure while awaiting patches, particularly restricting administrative access to the router's web interface. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary web management services, implementing network monitoring to detect anomalous traffic patterns, and maintaining detailed audit logs of administrative activities. Organizations should also consider deploying intrusion detection systems that can identify potential exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability. The remediation process must include thorough code review of all input handling functions within the firmware to prevent similar issues in other components of the system.