CVE-2025-14879 in WH450
Summary
by MITRE • 12/18/2025
A weakness has been identified in Tenda WH450 1.0.0.18. Affected is an unknown function of the file /goform/onSSIDChange of the component HTTP Request Handler. This manipulation of the argument ssid_index causes stack-based buffer overflow. It is possible to initiate the attack remotely. The exploit has been made available to the public and could be exploited.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/20/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2025-14879 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow weakness in the Tenda WH450 router firmware version 1.0.0.18. This flaw exists within the HTTP Request Handler component and specifically affects the /goform/onSSIDChange endpoint which processes wireless network configuration changes. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation when handling the ssid_index argument, creating an exploitable condition that allows attackers to manipulate memory layout through carefully crafted requests. The affected device operates with a web-based management interface that exposes this endpoint to remote access, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited without physical access to the device.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow occurs when the application processes the ssid_index parameter passed to the onSSIDChange function without adequate bounds checking or size validation. This allows an attacker to provide input that exceeds the allocated buffer space on the stack, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations including return addresses and function pointers. The vulnerability's classification as a stack-based buffer overflow aligns with CWE-121 which describes conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows data to be written beyond the boundaries of a stack buffer. This particular implementation represents a common weakness in embedded systems where memory management is often simplified for resource-constrained environments, leading to insufficient input sanitization mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution capabilities, as it enables attackers to gain unauthorized control over the affected router. The remote exploitability aspect means that threat actors can target these devices from anywhere on the internet, potentially leading to widespread compromise of home and small office networks. Once exploited, the attacker could modify network settings, redirect traffic through malicious servers, or establish persistent backdoors for future access. The public availability of exploit code increases the likelihood of automated attacks against vulnerable devices, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where routers are not regularly updated or monitored. This scenario aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 which covers the use of remote access tools and command execution capabilities through network-based exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-14879 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Tenda if available, as this represents the most effective protection against the known vulnerability. Network administrators should implement strict firewall rules to restrict access to the router's management interface, limiting exposure to trusted networks only and blocking external access to port 80 and 443 where the vulnerable HTTP handler operates. Additional protective measures include monitoring network traffic for unusual patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, implementing intrusion detection systems to identify potential attack signatures, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments of network infrastructure. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices in embedded systems development, particularly around input validation and memory management, which aligns with industry standards such as the OWASP Secure Coding Practices and NIST SP 800-160 guidelines for secure software development lifecycle implementation.