CVE-2025-61944 in Archer AX53 v1.0
Summary
by MITRE • 02/03/2026
Heap-based Buffer Overflow vulnerability in TP-Link Archer AX53 v1.0 (tmpserver modules) allows authenticated adjacent attackers to cause a segmentation fault or potentially execute arbitrary code via a specially crafted network packet containing an excessive number of fields with zero‑length values.This issue affects Archer AX53 v1.0: through 1.3.1 Build 20241120.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/16/2026
This heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability exists within the tmpserver modules of TP-Link Archer AX53 v1.0 firmware versions through 1.3.1 Build 20241120. The flaw manifests when the device processes network packets containing an excessive number of fields with zero-length values, creating a condition where memory allocation exceeds intended boundaries. The vulnerability is classified as a heap-based buffer overflow under CWE-122, representing a critical memory corruption issue that can lead to system instability and potential code execution. Attackers must be authenticated and within network proximity to exploit this vulnerability, making it an adjacent attack vector rather than a remote one.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the tmpserver module's packet parsing logic. When processing network packets, the system fails to properly constrain the number of fields with zero-length values that can be processed, allowing an attacker to craft malicious packets that trigger excessive memory allocation. The buffer overflow occurs in heap memory management where the system attempts to allocate memory for field processing without adequate bounds checking. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1210 - Exploitation of Remote Services, specifically targeting the device's network service components. The flaw represents a classic buffer overflow condition where the system's memory management routines are bypassed through crafted input sequences.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it can result in system segmentation faults causing device crashes and service disruption. More critically, the vulnerability may enable arbitrary code execution, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized control over the device. This compromise could lead to complete device takeover, enabling attackers to modify network configurations, intercept traffic, or use the device as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. The segmentation fault condition can also be leveraged for denial-of-service attacks, rendering the router inoperable and disrupting network connectivity for all connected devices. The vulnerability affects the device's core network processing capabilities, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise or home network environments where router stability is paramount.
Mitigation strategies should focus on firmware updates from TP-Link, which would address the underlying buffer overflow conditions through proper input validation and memory boundary checks. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit the attack surface, ensuring only authorized devices can communicate with the router. The device should be configured with the latest firmware version available from the vendor, as this vulnerability is specifically tied to firmware versions through 1.3.1 Build 20241120. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual packet patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, particularly those containing excessive zero-length field sequences. Additionally, implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify and block malformed packets targeting this specific vulnerability pattern would provide additional protection layers. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-122 and its exploitation potential through ATT&CK technique T1210 underscore the need for comprehensive security measures including regular firmware updates, network segmentation, and continuous monitoring of network traffic for suspicious activities.