CVE-2024-39288 in AC3000
Summary
by MITRE • 01/14/2025
A buffer overflow vulnerability exists in the internet.cgi set_add_routing() functionality of Wavlink AC3000 M33A8.V5030.210505. A specially crafted HTTP request can lead to stack-based buffer overflow. An attacker can make an authenticated HTTP request to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/22/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-39288 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the internet.cgi component of Wavlink AC3000 M33A8.V5030.210505 firmware. This flaw resides in the set_add_routing() function which processes HTTP requests containing routing configuration data. The vulnerability manifests when the firmware fails to properly validate input length before copying data to a fixed-size stack buffer, creating an exploitable condition that allows arbitrary code execution. The attack requires an authenticated session, meaning an adversary must first obtain valid credentials to access the device's web management interface. This authentication requirement reduces the attack surface but does not eliminate the severity of the vulnerability, as it can be exploited by insiders or attackers who have gained access through other means such as credential theft or default credential exploitation.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow stems from improper input validation within the web application layer of the router firmware. When processing HTTP requests through the internet.cgi script, the set_add_routing() function does not adequately check the length of incoming routing parameters before performing memory copy operations. This behavior directly maps to CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, where insufficient bounds checking allows data to overwrite adjacent stack memory locations. The vulnerability creates a condition where attacker-controlled data can overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical stack variables, potentially enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the web server process. The stack-based nature of this overflow means that the attack vector is particularly dangerous as it can corrupt the program's execution flow and potentially lead to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the network infrastructure controlled by the affected router. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can manipulate routing tables, redirect network traffic, or establish persistent backdoors within the network. This capability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1098.004 Valid Accounts, as the attack requires legitimate authentication but can then be used to maintain access and expand network compromise. The vulnerability affects the router's core network functionality, potentially creating denial of service conditions or enabling man-in-the-middle attacks against network traffic. Network administrators face significant risk as compromised routers can serve as entry points for lateral movement within corporate networks or as pivot points for attacks on external systems. The device's role as a network gateway makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous from a security perspective.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-39288 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Wavlink, as the vendor has likely released patches addressing this specific vulnerability. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit exposure of affected devices to untrusted networks, while monitoring for unauthorized access attempts and anomalous routing changes. The implementation of web application firewalls can help detect and block malicious HTTP requests targeting the vulnerable internet.cgi endpoint. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments of all network devices running similar firmware versions, as this vulnerability may be indicative of broader issues within the device's web interface implementation. Regular credential rotation and multi-factor authentication should be enforced for all administrative access points, while network monitoring systems should be configured to alert on unusual routing table modifications that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and secure coding practices in embedded web applications, particularly those handling network configuration data.