CVE-2024-44556 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 setIptvInfo.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-44556 affects the Tenda AX1806 router firmware version 1.0.0.1 and represents a critical stack overflow condition that arises from improper input validation within the device's web interface. This flaw exists in the setIptvInfo function which processes the adv.iptv.stballvlans parameter, creating a potential pathway for remote code execution and system compromise. The stack overflow occurs when an attacker submits a malformed parameter value that exceeds the allocated buffer space, causing the program to overwrite adjacent memory locations and potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a critical weakness in software security that allows attackers to manipulate program execution flow through buffer overrun conditions. The affected device operates within the consumer and small office networking segment, making it particularly concerning as these devices often serve as primary network gateways for home users and small businesses.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to send a specially crafted HTTP request to the router's web management interface, targeting the specific parameter that triggers the vulnerable function. The adv.iptv.stballvlans parameter is designed to configure iptv settings, but the lack of proper bounds checking means that an attacker can overflow the stack buffer and overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical memory segments. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1210 Exploitation of Remote Services, where attackers leverage network services to gain unauthorized access to systems. The stack overflow can potentially be leveraged to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process, which typically runs with elevated permissions on the device, allowing for complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it exists in the device's management interface, which is often accessible from the internet without proper authentication, creating a direct attack surface for remote exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system compromise to encompass potential network-wide consequences and data breaches. Once an attacker gains control of the router, they can manipulate network traffic, redirect DNS requests, establish persistent backdoors, or use the device as a launching point for attacks against other networked systems. The compromised device becomes a potential node in botnets or a man-in-the-middle attack platform, allowing for prolonged surveillance and data exfiltration. Organizations and individuals using affected Tenda AX1806 devices face significant risk of unauthorized network access, privacy violations, and potential financial losses from compromised systems. The vulnerability also impacts the device's availability, as successful exploitation could lead to denial of service conditions or complete system crashes. Network administrators should consider this vulnerability as a high-priority issue requiring immediate attention, particularly in environments where these devices are deployed without proper network segmentation or monitoring controls. The presence of such a vulnerability in widely deployed consumer networking equipment demonstrates the critical need for robust firmware security testing and regular update mechanisms to protect against emerging threats.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-44556 should begin with immediate firmware updates from Tenda if available, though the vulnerability's nature suggests that the manufacturer may need to issue a patched version addressing the specific buffer overflow in the setIptvInfo function. Network segmentation practices should isolate affected devices from critical network segments and implement firewall rules to restrict access to the device's management interface. The principle of least privilege should be applied by disabling unnecessary services and ensuring that only authorized personnel can access the router configuration interface. Regular network monitoring should include detection of anomalous traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly around the specific parameter that triggers the vulnerability. Additionally, network administrators should consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify and alert on known exploit signatures targeting this specific vulnerability. For organizations unable to immediately update firmware, temporary workarounds such as disabling the web management interface or restricting access to specific IP addresses can provide interim protection while more permanent solutions are implemented. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of conducting regular security assessments of network infrastructure and maintaining up-to-date threat intelligence to identify and respond to similar issues in other network equipment.