CVE-2024-0996 in Tenda
Summary
by MITRE • 01/29/2024
A vulnerability classified as critical has been found in Tenda i9 1.0.0.9(4122). This affects the function formSetCfm of the file /goform/setcfm of the component httpd. The manipulation of the argument funcpara1 leads to stack-based buffer overflow. It is possible to initiate the attack remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The identifier VDB-252261 was assigned to this vulnerability. NOTE: The vendor was contacted early about this disclosure but did not respond in any way.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-0996 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the Tenda i9 router firmware version 1.0.0.9(4122). This vulnerability specifically resides in the httpd component's function formSetCfm located within the /goform/setcfm file path. The flaw manifests when the funcpara1 argument is manipulated, creating conditions that allow attackers to overflow the stack buffer and potentially execute arbitrary code on the affected device. The remote exploitability of this vulnerability means that attackers can leverage this flaw without requiring physical access to the device, making it particularly dangerous for networked environments. The vulnerability's classification as critical stems from its potential to enable complete system compromise and the public availability of exploit code, which significantly increases the risk to affected users.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. This type of vulnerability typically occurs when developers do not properly validate input parameters before copying them into fixed-size buffers, creating opportunities for attackers to overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical stack data. The specific attack vector involves sending malicious input through the funcpara1 parameter to the setcfm endpoint, which then processes this input without adequate validation mechanisms. The exploitation of this flaw could potentially enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to the router's administrative interface, modify network configurations, or even install persistent backdoors on the device.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-0996 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as compromised routers can serve as entry points for broader network attacks within affected organizations. Once an attacker gains control of a router, they can potentially monitor network traffic, redirect DNS requests, or establish persistent access points for further exploitation of other networked devices. The vulnerability affects not just individual devices but entire network infrastructures, as routers often serve as central points of control and monitoring for local networks. The lack of vendor response to early disclosure attempts creates additional risk, as users may remain unaware of the vulnerability for extended periods while attackers continue to exploit it. This delay in vendor acknowledgment and patch development increases the window of opportunity for malicious actors to leverage the vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate firmware updates from Tenda if available, network segmentation to limit potential attack surfaces, and implementation of intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious traffic patterns targeting the affected endpoint. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary services and implementing network access controls to reduce exposure. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1210 - Exploitation of Remote Services, as it involves leveraging a remote service to gain unauthorized access to a system. Additionally, the vulnerability may be classified under T1566 - Phishing, as attackers might use social engineering to convince users to interact with compromised devices. Network administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls to filter malicious requests targeting the specific endpoint and ensure that all network devices are regularly updated with the latest security patches to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.