CVE-2023-51954 in AX1803
Summary
by MITRE • 01/10/2024
Tenda AX1803 v1.0.0.1 contains a stack overflow via the iptv.stb.port parameter in the function formSetIptv.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/04/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-51954 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.port parameter within the formSetIptv function. This issue falls under the CWE-121 stack-based buffer overflow category, where insufficient bounds checking allows an attacker to write beyond the allocated memory space of a stack buffer. The affected device operates as a wireless router with IPTV capabilities, making it a potential target for attackers seeking to disrupt network services or gain unauthorized access to connected devices.
The technical flaw manifests when the router processes the iptv.stb.port parameter through the formSetIptv function without adequate input validation or size constraints. This allows an attacker to submit a malformed parameter value that exceeds the buffer capacity allocated for storing the port information. When the function attempts to copy the oversized input into the fixed-size stack buffer, it overflows into adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting the stack frame and executable code. This type of vulnerability can lead to arbitrary code execution or complete system compromise, as demonstrated by similar stack overflow exploits in network device firmware.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it creates opportunities for attackers to execute malicious code within the router's operating environment. Given that the Tenda AX1803 serves as a central networking device in residential and small office environments, exploitation could result in complete network compromise, allowing attackers to intercept traffic, modify network settings, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects a widely deployed router model, potentially exposing thousands of devices to remote exploitation without requiring authentication or specialized knowledge of the target network.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-51954 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Tenda, as the vendor has likely released patches addressing this specific stack overflow condition. Network administrators should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of affected devices, while monitoring for suspicious traffic patterns or unauthorized configuration changes. Additionally, the vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the affected device. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify attempts to exploit known buffer overflow patterns in network device firmware, particularly targeting the specific parameter and function combination identified in this vulnerability.