CVE-2025-24322 in AC6
Summary
by MITRE • 08/20/2025
An unsafe default authentication vulnerability exists in the Initial Setup Authentication functionality of Tenda AC6 V5.0 V02.03.01.110. A specially crafted network request can lead to arbitrary code execution. An attacker can browse to the device to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/20/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-24322 represents a critical unsafe default authentication flaw within the Tenda AC6 V5.0 V02.03.01.110 router firmware. This issue resides in the Initial Setup Authentication functionality, which serves as the primary gateway for device configuration and access control. The vulnerability stems from the device's failure to properly validate authentication credentials during the initial setup phase, creating a persistent security weakness that can be exploited by unauthorized parties. The flaw specifically manifests when the device's authentication mechanisms rely on default credentials or insufficient validation processes, allowing malicious actors to bypass normal access controls through crafted network requests. This represents a fundamental breakdown in the device's security architecture, as the initial setup phase should provide the strongest authentication safeguards but instead creates an exploitable entry point.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through carefully constructed network requests that leverage the unsafe default authentication mechanism. Attackers can trigger the vulnerability by simply browsing to the device's web interface or sending specific HTTP requests that exploit the weak authentication implementation. The vulnerability enables arbitrary code execution, meaning that successful exploitation allows attackers to run malicious code directly on the router's operating system. This level of access provides complete control over the device's functionality, including the ability to modify network configurations, intercept traffic, redirect connections, and potentially use the compromised device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the local network. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no specialized tools or advanced knowledge beyond basic web browsing capabilities, making it accessible to attackers with minimal technical expertise. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues, and specifically relates to the lack of proper authentication mechanisms in initial setup processes.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond the immediate compromise of a single device. Once an attacker gains access through this vulnerability, they can establish persistent control over the network infrastructure, potentially disrupting services, monitoring network traffic, and using the device as a launching point for further attacks. The compromised router can become a man-in-the-middle attack platform, allowing attackers to intercept communications between devices and the internet, or serve as a command and control node for botnet activities. The vulnerability affects the device's ability to provide network security, as it undermines the fundamental trust model that users expect from their networking equipment. Organizations and individuals relying on this device for network security are left vulnerable to various attack scenarios including data exfiltration, network disruption, and lateral movement within the compromised network environment. The impact is particularly severe because the vulnerability exists in the initial setup phase, meaning that devices may remain vulnerable even after installation if proper authentication is not enforced.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-24322 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary recommendation involves updating to the latest firmware version provided by Tenda, which should contain patches addressing the unsafe default authentication mechanism. Network administrators should also implement immediate network segmentation to limit the potential impact of a compromised device, ensuring that the router's access to critical network resources is restricted. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary services, implementing strong network access controls, and monitoring for suspicious network activity that may indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should conduct thorough network assessments to identify all affected devices and ensure proper authentication enforcement throughout the network infrastructure. The vulnerability highlights the importance of implementing robust authentication practices throughout all network components, particularly during initial setup phases where devices are most vulnerable to exploitation. Security teams should also consider deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for known exploitation patterns associated with this vulnerability, and establish incident response procedures to address potential compromises. This case exemplifies the critical need for manufacturers to implement secure-by-design principles in networking equipment, ensuring that initial setup processes provide robust authentication mechanisms rather than relying on potentially insecure defaults. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to security standards such as those outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly in the context of network infrastructure security.