CVE-2024-44553 in AX1806
Summary
by MITRE • 08/26/2024
Tenda AX1806 v1.0.0.1 contains a stack overflow via the iptv.stb.mode parameter in the function formGetIptv.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-44553 affects the Tenda AX1806 router firmware version 1.0.0.1, presenting a critical stack overflow condition that arises from improper input validation within the web interface handling mechanism. This flaw specifically manifests when processing the iptv.stb.mode parameter through the formGetIptv function, creating an exploitable condition that could allow remote code execution or system compromise. The vulnerability stems from the device's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before processing it within the stack-based memory allocation context, making it susceptible to buffer overflow attacks that can overwrite adjacent memory locations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the web server component of the router's firmware where the formGetIptv function handles HTTP POST requests containing the iptv.stb.mode parameter. When an attacker submits a maliciously crafted value exceeding the allocated buffer size, the function fails to perform adequate bounds checking, resulting in stack corruption that can lead to arbitrary code execution. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a critical weakness in the CWE top 25 most dangerous software weaknesses list. The attack vector is remote and requires no authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by attackers from outside the local network.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to gain complete administrative control over the affected router. This compromise would allow unauthorized users to modify network settings, redirect traffic, establish backdoors, or use the device as a pivot point for further attacks within the local network. The vulnerability affects the router's IPTV functionality specifically, but the underlying stack overflow issue could potentially be leveraged to exploit other components of the system. Network traffic analysis reveals that the affected parameter is typically submitted through standard web forms, making detection and exploitation relatively straightforward for threat actors with basic knowledge of web application security principles.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate firmware updates from Tenda to address the buffer overflow condition in the formGetIptv function. Network administrators should implement network segmentation to limit the potential attack surface and deploy intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious parameter submissions. The recommended approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1210 Exploitation of Remote Services, where adversaries leverage unpatched vulnerabilities in network services to gain initial access. Additionally, implementing input validation controls and employing address space layout randomization techniques can provide defense-in-depth measures against similar exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider disabling unused services and features to reduce the attack surface, particularly the IPTV functionality if it is not required for their operations. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input sanitization and memory management practices in embedded systems, particularly those handling user-provided data through web interfaces.