CVE-2024-25751 in AC9
Summary
by MITRE • 02/27/2024
A Stack Based Buffer Overflow vulnerability in Tenda AC9 v.3.0 with firmware version v.15.03.06.42_multi allows a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code via the fromSetSysTime function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/27/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2024-25751 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow in the Tenda AC9 wireless router model running firmware version v.15.03.06.42_multi. This flaw exists within the fromSetSysTime function, which handles system time configuration requests. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and bounds checking when processing time-related parameters sent to the device. Attackers can exploit this weakness by sending specially crafted time data to the router's web interface or management API, causing a buffer overflow that can overwrite adjacent stack memory locations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of user-supplied input within the router's firmware code. When the fromSetSysTime function processes incoming time parameters, it fails to validate the length of the input data against the allocated buffer size, creating an exploitable condition where an attacker can overflow the stack buffer and potentially overwrite the return address of the calling function. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a critical weakness in software security. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access or local network presence to trigger the condition, making it particularly dangerous for networked devices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to gain full control over the affected router. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to modify router configurations, redirect traffic through malicious servers, install persistent backdoors, or use the device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the local network. The router's administrative functions become compromised, potentially allowing unauthorized access to network resources, data exfiltration, or the establishment of command and control channels. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1566.001 for Phishing, as it enables attackers to establish persistent access and potentially spread malware throughout the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-25751 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Tenda, as the vendor has likely released patches addressing this specific vulnerability. Network administrators should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure, while monitoring for unusual traffic patterns or unauthorized configuration changes. The implementation of intrusion detection systems and network monitoring tools can help identify exploitation attempts. Additionally, disabling unnecessary services and ports, particularly those related to remote management, can reduce the attack surface. Organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their network infrastructure to identify other potentially vulnerable devices running the same firmware versions, as similar vulnerabilities may exist in other Tenda router models or firmware versions. Regular security audits and network monitoring practices should be enhanced to detect and prevent exploitation of similar buffer overflow vulnerabilities in the future.