CVE-2024-28545 in AC18
Summary
by MITRE • 03/26/2024
Tenda AC18 v15.03.05.19(6318_)_cn was discovered to contain a command injection vulnerability via the deviceName parameter in the setUsbUnload function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/10/2026
The Tenda AC18 router running firmware version v15.03.05.19(6318_)_cn presents a critical command injection vulnerability that stems from improper input validation within the setUsbUnload function. This vulnerability resides in the device's web interface where the deviceName parameter is processed without adequate sanitization or validation, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary commands that execute with elevated privileges on the affected device. The flaw represents a classic command injection vulnerability that falls under the CWE-77 category, specifically categorized as a command injection weakness where user-supplied data is directly incorporated into system commands without proper escaping or filtering mechanisms. The vulnerability exists in the device's handling of the deviceName parameter which is passed to the setUsbUnload function, creating an opportunity for attackers to manipulate the device's behavior through crafted input sequences that bypass normal access controls.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability enables an attacker to execute arbitrary commands on the router's operating system with root privileges, effectively compromising the entire device. When a malicious user submits a specially crafted deviceName parameter containing command injection payloads, the router processes this input directly within a shell context, allowing for unauthorized system access, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple command execution as it provides attackers with complete control over the device's functionality, including the ability to modify network settings, disable security features, or establish persistent backdoors. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 which describes command and scripting interpreter usage, specifically targeting the use of shell commands to execute malicious payloads on compromised systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it transforms a consumer-grade router into a potential entry point for broader network attacks. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain access to the internal network, potentially leading to further compromise of connected devices, unauthorized data access, or the establishment of command and control infrastructure. The device's USB storage functionality becomes a vector for additional attacks, as the setUsbUnload function may be manipulated to execute malicious code during USB device operations. Network administrators face significant challenges in detecting such attacks since legitimate device operations may appear normal while malicious commands execute in the background. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate device but also represents a potential threat to the entire network infrastructure, as routers often serve as critical network gateways and security enforcement points. Organizations relying on Tenda AC18 devices for network connectivity may experience unauthorized access to sensitive information, network disruption, or complete network compromise if this vulnerability remains unpatched.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate firmware updates from Tenda to address the command injection flaw, along with network segmentation and monitoring to detect anomalous device behavior. Network administrators should implement strict input validation on all web interface parameters and consider disabling unnecessary USB functionality when not required. The device should be configured with strong authentication credentials and access controls, while network traffic monitoring can help identify suspicious command execution patterns. Additionally, implementing network access controls and firewall rules to restrict access to the device's web interface can reduce the attack surface. Organizations should also conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses in other network devices. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and input validation in embedded systems, particularly in network infrastructure devices where a single flaw can compromise entire network domains. Regular security updates and proper device management practices are essential to prevent exploitation of such command injection vulnerabilities.