CVE-2024-46313 in WR941ND
Summary
by MITRE • 09/30/2024
TP-Link WR941ND V6 has a stack overflow vulnerability in the ssid parameter in /userRpm/popupSiteSurveyRpm.htm.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/01/2024
The TP-Link WR941ND V6 wireless router presents a critical stack overflow vulnerability within its web management interface that stems from improper input validation in the ssid parameter handling. This vulnerability exists within the /userRpm/popupSiteSurveyRpm.htm page, which is part of the device's administrative web application. The flaw allows an attacker to manipulate the ssid parameter through HTTP requests, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or complete system compromise. The stack overflow occurs when the device fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input before processing it within the memory stack structure, creating a condition where malicious data can overwrite adjacent memory locations. This vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a serious weakness in software security architecture. The attack vector is accessible via the web interface, making it particularly dangerous as it requires no physical access to the device and can be exploited remotely by authenticated or unauthenticated users depending on the specific implementation. The vulnerability represents a significant risk to network security as it could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to the router's administrative functions, potentially leading to complete network compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves crafting a specially formatted ssid parameter that exceeds the allocated buffer size within the application's memory stack. When the device processes this malformed input, the excessive data overflows into adjacent memory regions, potentially corrupting critical program execution data or even allowing an attacker to inject and execute malicious code. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in network infrastructure devices because it can provide attackers with persistent access to the network and the ability to modify routing configurations, DNS settings, or implement man-in-the-middle attacks. The stack overflow in this context creates an opportunity for attackers to manipulate the instruction pointer and redirect program execution flow, which aligns with techniques described in the ATT&CK framework under T1059.007 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1566.001 Phishing. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple denial of service as it can enable complete system takeover through carefully crafted payloads that exploit the memory corruption to achieve arbitrary code execution. The router's firmware architecture appears to lack proper bounds checking and input sanitization mechanisms that would normally prevent such memory corruption scenarios.
The operational impact of this vulnerability poses significant risks to both enterprise and home network environments that utilize TP-Link WR941ND V6 devices. Network administrators may unknowingly leave these devices exposed to remote exploitation, potentially allowing attackers to establish persistent backdoors, monitor network traffic, or redirect traffic through malicious servers. The vulnerability affects the device's ability to maintain secure network operations and can result in unauthorized access to sensitive network information, including credentials, network topology details, and potentially connected devices. Organizations relying on these routers for network infrastructure may face compliance violations if the devices are exploited, as they could be considered vulnerable points in their security posture. The attack surface is particularly concerning because the web interface is typically accessible from both internal and external networks, especially if the device has been configured with default settings or if port forwarding rules have been implemented. This vulnerability can also enable attackers to use the compromised device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the local network, making it a critical concern for network segmentation and perimeter security. The potential for credential theft, data exfiltration, and network disruption makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where network security is paramount. The lack of proper input validation in the web application layer creates a fundamental weakness that can be exploited across multiple attack scenarios, including those involving social engineering or automated scanning tools. Organizations should consider implementing network monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts and ensure that all affected devices are promptly updated with security patches or replaced with more secure alternatives. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and input validation in network infrastructure devices, as even minor oversights in memory management can result in severe security consequences that affect entire network ecosystems.