CVE-2025-8178 in AC10
Summary
by MITRE • 07/26/2025
A vulnerability classified as critical has been found in Tenda AC10 16.03.10.13. Affected is an unknown function of the file /goform/RequestsProcessLaid. The manipulation of the argument device1D leads to heap-based buffer overflow. It is possible to launch the attack remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-8178 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow in the Tenda AC10 router firmware version 16.03.10.13. This issue resides within the /goform/RequestsProcessLaid file and specifically affects the device1D argument handling mechanism. The flaw constitutes a serious security weakness that allows attackers to execute remote code execution through network-based attacks. The affected device operates with a web-based management interface that processes form data through the vulnerable function, creating an attack surface that can be exploited without physical access to the device. The heap-based nature of the buffer overflow indicates that the vulnerability occurs when the application attempts to write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries in the heap segment, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in networked devices as it can be exploited by remote attackers who do not require authentication or physical access to the target system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established pattern that aligns with common attack methodologies documented in the attack mitigation frameworks. The device1D argument manipulation creates conditions where attacker-controlled input can overflow the heap buffer, potentially allowing for stack corruption and execution control. This flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-121, heap-based buffer overflow conditions, where insufficient validation of input data leads to memory corruption. The remote attack vector indicates that the vulnerability can be triggered through web requests sent to the router's management interface, making it accessible to anyone within the network scope or potentially exposed to the internet. The disclosure of the exploit to the public community significantly increases the risk profile, as malicious actors can immediately implement the attack without requiring additional reconnaissance or development time.
The operational impact of CVE-2025-8178 extends beyond simple system compromise, as it can lead to complete network infiltration and persistent access to the affected device. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain unauthorized access to the router's administrative functions, potentially enabling them to modify network configurations, redirect traffic, or establish backdoors for continued access. The heap-based nature of the vulnerability means that successful exploitation could result in denial of service conditions or complete system compromise, depending on the attacker's objectives. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise and home network environments where Tenda AC10 devices are deployed, as these routers often serve as critical network gateways. The implications include potential data interception, man-in-the-middle attacks, and the ability to use the compromised device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the local network. The lack of authentication requirements for exploitation makes this vulnerability particularly concerning for devices that are accessible from untrusted networks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-8178 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Tenda, as this represents the most effective defense against the known exploit. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the router's management interface, particularly limiting access to trusted networks only. The implementation of intrusion detection systems can help identify exploitation attempts through monitoring of unusual traffic patterns targeting the vulnerable web interface. Security professionals should also consider disabling unnecessary services and features on the router to reduce the attack surface. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other networked devices. The use of network access control measures and monitoring of administrative access logs can provide early detection of unauthorized access attempts. Organizations should also implement robust patch management processes to ensure timely deployment of security updates across all network infrastructure components. Compliance with security standards such as those outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and ISO 27001 can provide structured approaches to managing this type of vulnerability and preventing similar issues from occurring in other network devices.