CVE-2024-2978 in F1203
Summary
by MITRE • 03/27/2024
A vulnerability classified as critical has been found in Tenda F1203 2.0.1.6. This affects the function formSetCfm of the file /goform/setcfm. 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 associated identifier of this vulnerability is VDB-258147. 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 • 01/16/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-2978 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw in Tenda F1203 wireless routers running firmware version 2.0.1.6. This vulnerability exists within the web-based administration interface of the device, specifically within the /goform/setcfm endpoint which handles configuration management functions. The affected function formSetCfm processes input parameters through the funcpara1 argument, creating an exploitable condition that allows attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially execute arbitrary code on the affected device.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a stack-based buffer overflow attack that leverages the improper handling of user-supplied input in the funcpara1 parameter. When an attacker sends a specially crafted request to the vulnerable endpoint, the system fails to properly validate or limit the size of the input data, allowing the malicious payload to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a critical weakness in software security design. The overflow can potentially overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical stack variables, enabling attackers to redirect program execution flow and gain unauthorized access to the device.
The remote exploitability of this vulnerability presents significant operational risks for network administrators and end users who rely on Tenda F1203 routers for their network infrastructure. Since the attack can be initiated without requiring physical access to the device, malicious actors can exploit this vulnerability from anywhere on the internet, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise and home networks. The disclosure of public exploitation tools increases the likelihood of widespread compromise, as the vulnerability can be leveraged by both sophisticated attackers and script kiddies. Network security professionals must consider the potential for lateral movement within compromised networks, as attackers could use these routers as entry points to target other connected devices or systems.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies to protect against exploitation of this vulnerability. The primary recommended action is to update the firmware to the latest version provided by Tenda, which should contain patches addressing the buffer overflow condition. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit exposure of these devices to untrusted networks. Monitoring for suspicious network traffic patterns and implementing intrusion detection systems can help identify potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should consider disabling unnecessary web management interfaces and implementing strong authentication mechanisms to reduce the attack surface. The lack of vendor response to early disclosure notifications compounds the risk, as organizations cannot rely on official patches or security advisories from Tenda, necessitating more aggressive defensive measures and potentially requiring the replacement of affected devices. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date firmware and the risks associated with vendor inaction in security disclosure processes.