CVE-2025-6983 in Archer C1200
Summary
by MITRE • 07/16/2025
A
Clickjacking vulnerability in TP-Link Archer C1200 web management page allows an attacker to trick users into performing unintended actions via rendered UI layers or frames.This issue affects Archer C1200 <= 1.1.5.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-6983 represents a critical clickjacking flaw within the web management interface of TP-Link Archer C1200 wireless routers. This security weakness specifically impacts firmware versions up to and including 1.1.5, creating a significant risk for users who access the device's administrative panel through web browsers. The vulnerability arises from insufficient protection mechanisms that allow malicious actors to overlay deceptive user interface elements on top of legitimate management pages, effectively trapping unsuspecting users into executing unauthorized commands without their knowledge or consent.
The technical implementation of this clickjacking vulnerability stems from the absence of proper security headers and frame-busting mechanisms within the router's web interface. When users navigate to the management page, the system fails to implement the X-Frame-Options header or similar protective measures that would prevent the page from being embedded within other web pages or frames. This omission creates an environment where attackers can craft malicious web pages that load the legitimate router management interface within invisible or transparent iframes, overlaying them with deceptive elements that appear to be legitimate interface components. The flaw operates by exploiting the browser's default behavior of allowing cross-origin frame embedding without explicit permission, enabling attackers to manipulate user interactions through layered UI components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access attempts, as it can enable attackers to perform critical administrative functions such as changing network settings, modifying user credentials, updating firmware, or disabling security features. An attacker could potentially redirect traffic, establish unauthorized access points, or modify firewall rules, all while the user believes they are interacting with a legitimate management interface. The attack vector requires minimal technical expertise to exploit, as it relies on social engineering elements to convince victims to visit malicious websites rather than requiring advanced technical skills or specialized tools. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users have access to the network and where users may not be security-aware.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-1021, which specifically addresses "Improper Restriction of Rendered UI Layers or Frames," and maps to ATT&CK technique T1546.001, which covers "Event Triggered Execution: Change Default File Association". The weakness creates an environment where user interactions can be hijacked through UI layer manipulation, effectively allowing attackers to execute administrative functions without proper authentication. Organizations and individual users should immediately update their TP-Link Archer C1200 firmware to version 1.1.6 or later, which includes the necessary security patches to prevent frame embedding and implement proper clickjacking protection mechanisms. Additionally, network administrators should consider implementing additional monitoring measures to detect unusual patterns in router management access and ensure that users are educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites that might contain malicious clickjacking content. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper web security implementation and highlights the critical need for manufacturers to address UI-layer security concerns in network infrastructure devices.