CVE-2024-44552 in AX1806
Summary
by MITRE • 08/26/2024
Tenda AX1806 v1.0.0.1 contains a stack overflow via the adv.iptv.stballvlans parameter in the function formGetIptv.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-44552 affects the Tenda AX1806 router firmware version 1.0.0.1 and represents a critical stack overflow condition that can be exploited through manipulation of the adv.iptv.stballvlans parameter. This issue occurs within the formGetIptv function, which processes input parameters related to IPTV configuration settings. The stack overflow vulnerability arises when the device fails to properly validate or sanitize the stballvlans parameter, allowing an attacker to craft malicious input that exceeds the allocated stack buffer space. Such buffer overflows typically result from inadequate bounds checking and can lead to arbitrary code execution or system crashes, making this a severe security concern for network infrastructure devices. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through web-based interfaces that administrators or users might interact with during routine configuration tasks, potentially allowing remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to the device's operating system.
The technical flaw manifests as a classic stack-based buffer overflow within the router's firmware code execution environment. When the formGetIptv function processes the adv.iptv.stballvlans parameter, it fails to implement proper input validation mechanisms that would prevent excessive data from being copied into a fixed-size stack buffer. This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified under the Common Weakness Enumeration framework as a fundamental programming error that occurs when data is written beyond the boundaries of a fixed-length buffer allocated on the stack. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it likely requires only a single HTTP request to a web interface, making exploitation straightforward for remote attackers who do not need physical access to the device. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple denial of service, as stack overflows can be leveraged to overwrite critical memory locations including return addresses, enabling attackers to redirect program execution flow and potentially achieve complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends significantly beyond immediate service disruption, as it creates a persistent security risk for any network infrastructure utilizing affected Tenda AX1806 devices. Network administrators who perform routine configuration tasks through web interfaces may inadvertently expose their systems to exploitation, particularly if they have not implemented proper network segmentation or access controls. The vulnerability's presence in a wireless router firmware means that it could be exploited from external network positions, potentially allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to the internal network, escalate privileges, or establish persistent backdoors. This risk is compounded by the fact that many network administrators may not be aware of the specific parameter that triggers the vulnerability, making detection and mitigation more challenging. The potential for remote code execution through this stack overflow could enable attackers to install malware, modify network configurations, or use the device as a pivot point for further attacks against other systems within the network perimeter, representing a significant threat to overall network security posture.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-44552 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Tenda, as this represents the most effective solution to address the underlying code vulnerability. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to affected devices and consider disabling unnecessary web interfaces or services that might expose the vulnerable parameter to external networks. Network monitoring should include detection of unusual parameter values being submitted to web interfaces, particularly those related to IPTV configuration settings. The implementation of web application firewalls or intrusion prevention systems can help detect and block malicious requests attempting to exploit this specific vulnerability. Additionally, security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially affected devices within their network infrastructure, as similar patterns of buffer overflow vulnerabilities may exist in other firmware components. According to ATT&CK framework T1210, which covers Exploitation of Remote Services, this vulnerability could be categorized under techniques involving exploitation of network services, while the use of stack overflow for privilege escalation aligns with T1068, which addresses Exploitation for Privilege Escalation. Organizations should also consider implementing network access controls and regular security audits to prevent unauthorized access to network devices and ensure timely patch deployment across all affected systems.