CVE-2023-51959 in AX1803
Summary
by MITRE • 01/10/2024
Tenda AX1803 v1.0.0.1 contains a stack overflow via the adv.iptv.stbpvid parameter in the function formGetIptv.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/09/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-51959 affects the Tenda AX1803 router firmware version 1.0.0.1, presenting a critical stack overflow condition that can be exploited through manipulation of the adv.iptv.stbpvid parameter within the formGetIptv function. This issue represents a fundamental flaw in the router's input validation mechanisms, where insufficient bounds checking allows maliciously crafted input to overwrite stack memory regions. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of user-supplied data in the web interface configuration parameters, creating an exploitable condition that could allow remote code execution or system compromise. The affected device operates under the assumption that all incoming parameters from web forms are trustworthy, failing to implement proper sanitization and validation procedures.
This stack overflow vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of Stack-based Buffer Overflow, where the adv.iptv.stbpvid parameter is processed without adequate length restrictions or memory boundary checks. The formGetIptv function serves as the entry point for processing IPTV-related configuration data, but lacks proper input validation that would prevent buffer overflows when handling excessively long parameter values. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by sending specially crafted HTTP requests containing malformed data in the stbpvid parameter, which when processed by the vulnerable function triggers the stack corruption. The exploitation requires no authentication and can be executed remotely, making it particularly dangerous for networked devices. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1210 which covers exploitation of remote services through buffer overflow attacks, and T1068 which involves exploiting vulnerabilities in the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it provides potential for complete system compromise and unauthorized access to the affected router. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to full network infiltration. The router's configuration interface becomes a vector for privilege escalation attacks, where attackers could modify network settings, redirect traffic, or establish persistent backdoors. Given that the vulnerability affects a networking device, the potential for lateral movement within a network increases significantly, as compromised routers often serve as gateway points for accessing internal systems. The impact is particularly severe for enterprise environments where such devices may be used as core infrastructure components.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate firmware updates from the vendor, as the vulnerability affects a specific firmware version and likely has a patched release available. Network administrators should implement monitoring for suspicious HTTP requests targeting the affected parameter and consider network segmentation to limit potential lateral movement. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and proper memory management in embedded systems, highlighting the need for secure coding practices during firmware development. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and rate limiting for configuration interfaces can provide additional protective layers against exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider conducting vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially affected devices within their network infrastructure that may share similar implementation flaws.