CVE-2024-42953 in FH1201
Summary
by MITRE • 08/15/2024
Tenda FH1201 v1.2.0.14 (408) was discovered to contain a stack overflow via the PPW parameter in the fromWizardHandle function. This vulnerability allows attackers to cause a Denial of Service (DoS) via a crafted POST request.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/17/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-42953 affects the Tenda FH1201 router model running firmware version v1.2.0.14 build 408. This issue represents a critical stack overflow condition that occurs within the device's web interface handling mechanism. The vulnerability specifically manifests in the fromWizardHandle function where the PPW parameter is processed without adequate input validation or bounds checking. The stack overflow vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of user-supplied data, creating a condition where maliciously crafted input can overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 stack-based buffer overflow category, which is classified as a serious security flaw that can potentially lead to arbitrary code execution or system instability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service as initially described. While the primary effect is a denial of service condition through system crash or reboot, the underlying stack overflow presents a broader security risk that could be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access to the device. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the application layer within the router's web management interface, making it accessible to remote attackers who can craft malicious POST requests to exploit the flaw. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to disrupt network services, potentially causing extended outages for users relying on the router for internet connectivity. The exploitation requires minimal technical expertise and can be automated, making it attractive to malicious actors seeking to compromise network infrastructure.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate memory management within the router's firmware implementation. The attack surface is relatively narrow as it requires specific access to the device's web interface and knowledge of the vulnerable parameter structure. However, the potential for escalation remains significant given that many IoT devices lack robust security measures. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1210 - Exploitation of Remote Services, as it exploits a service running on the device's network interface. Network administrators should consider this vulnerability as part of a broader assessment of IoT device security, particularly in environments where these devices are deployed without proper network segmentation or monitoring controls.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate firmware updates from Tenda if available, network segmentation to limit access to the affected device, and implementation of network monitoring to detect unusual traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The device should be isolated from critical network segments until a patch is applied, and administrators should consider disabling unnecessary web management interfaces to reduce the attack surface. Regular vulnerability assessments of network infrastructure should be conducted to identify similar issues in other network devices. Additionally, implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify malformed POST requests targeting web interfaces will help in early detection of exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in embedded systems, particularly in IoT devices where security updates may be infrequent or unavailable.