CVE-2024-44563 in AX1806
Summary
by MITRE • 08/26/2024
Tenda AX1806 v1.0.0.1 contains a stack overflow via the iptv.stb.port parameter in the function setIptvInfo.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/27/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-44563 affects the Tenda AX1806 router firmware version 1.0.0.1 and represents a critical stack overflow condition that can be exploited through the iptv.stb.port parameter within the setIptvInfo function. This flaw resides in the router's web interface handling mechanism where user-supplied input is not properly validated or sanitized before being processed. The stack overflow occurs when an attacker sends a specially crafted request containing an excessively long string in the iptv.stb.port parameter, causing the application to write beyond the allocated memory buffer on the stack. This vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a fundamental memory safety issue that can lead to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. The affected device operates with a web-based management interface that processes configuration parameters through HTTP requests, making it susceptible to remote exploitation without requiring authentication.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic buffer overflow scenario where the setIptvInfo function fails to perform adequate bounds checking on input data. When the iptv.stb.port parameter exceeds the predefined buffer size, the excess data overflows into adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting the stack frame including return addresses and function pointers. This condition creates an exploitable state where an attacker could manipulate the program execution flow to execute malicious code with the privileges of the web server process. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it exists in the router's configuration handling logic, which means that an attacker could potentially gain persistent control over the device's network operations and routing functions. The attack surface is further expanded due to the web interface being accessible over the network, making this vulnerability suitable for remote exploitation.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-44563 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to potentially enable full system compromise of the affected Tenda AX1806 devices. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain unauthorized access to the router's administrative functions, allowing them to modify network configurations, redirect traffic, or establish persistent backdoors. The stack overflow could also be leveraged to execute arbitrary commands on the underlying operating system, potentially enabling the attacker to install malware, create unauthorized network connections, or use the device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the local network. This vulnerability directly relates to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript and T1068 Valid Accounts, as it allows for remote code execution and potential privilege escalation. The compromised device could be used for various malicious activities including DNS hijacking, man-in-the-middle attacks, or as part of a botnet for distributed denial-of-service attacks against other targets.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate firmware updates from Tenda to address the buffer overflow condition in the setIptvInfo function. Network administrators should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of affected devices to untrusted networks. The implementation of web application firewalls and input validation rules can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts targeting this specific parameter. Additionally, monitoring network traffic for unusual patterns in HTTP requests containing the iptv.stb.port parameter can aid in early detection of exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary web interface access and implementing strong authentication mechanisms for router management interfaces. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and proper memory management in embedded systems, aligning with industry best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST Cybersecurity Framework. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing of network infrastructure should be conducted to identify similar issues in other network devices and firmware versions.