CVE-2023-51953 in AX1803
Summary
by MITRE • 01/10/2024
Tenda AX1803 v1.0.0.1 contains a stack overflow via the iptv.stb.mode parameter in the function formSetIptv.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/20/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-51953 affects the Tenda AX1803 router firmware version 1.0.0.1 and represents a critical stack overflow condition that can be exploited through the iptv.stb.mode parameter within the formSetIptv function. This vulnerability resides in the web management interface of the device and demonstrates a classic buffer overflow flaw that occurs when user-supplied input is not properly validated or sanitized before being processed by the affected software component. The issue stems from insufficient bounds checking mechanisms that allow an attacker to provide excessive input data to the iptv.stb.mode parameter, causing the program to write beyond the allocated memory space on the stack. This particular implementation flaw falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category of CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is a well-documented and dangerous vulnerability type that can lead to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it exists in a network device's administrative interface, which means an attacker could potentially gain unauthorized access to the router's management functions without proper authentication.
The operational impact of this stack overflow vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions and presents significant security risks to network infrastructure. When exploited successfully, the vulnerability could allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector requires only a single HTTP request containing a maliciously crafted iptv.stb.mode parameter, making it highly exploitable and suitable for automated attacks. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, modify network configurations, redirect traffic, or even use the compromised device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the local network. The vulnerability affects the router's web interface functionality and could be exploited through various attack techniques including but not limited to code injection, memory corruption, and privilege escalation. This type of vulnerability aligns with the tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the Tactic of Execution and Privilege Escalation, where attackers can leverage buffer overflow conditions to gain elevated system privileges and execute malicious payloads.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-51953 should include immediate firmware updates from Tenda to address the stack overflow condition in the affected router model. Network administrators should ensure that all affected devices are updated to the latest firmware version that contains patches for this vulnerability. In cases where immediate firmware updates are not possible, network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit exposure of the vulnerable management interface. The router's web management interface should be restricted to trusted network segments only, and direct internet access should be disabled for administrative functions. Additional defensive measures include implementing network monitoring to detect anomalous traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, deploying intrusion detection systems to identify suspicious parameter values in HTTP requests, and regularly reviewing router logs for signs of unauthorized access attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing network access control lists that restrict access to the router's administrative ports and ensure that default credentials are changed immediately upon device deployment. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and input validation in network device firmware development, as proper bounds checking and parameter sanitization would have prevented the stack overflow condition from occurring in the first place.