CVE-2026-15548 in Tomato
Summary
by MITRE • 07/13/2026
A security vulnerability has been detected in Shibby Tomato up to 1.28.0000. This vulnerability affects the function sub_407220 of the file /usr/sbin/httpd of the component DNS List Rendering. The manipulation leads to stack-based buffer overflow. The attack is possible to be carried out remotely. This project is superseded by FreshTomato.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/13/2026
This vulnerability resides within the Shibby Tomato firmware version 1.28.0000 and specifically targets the DNS List Rendering component through a stack-based buffer overflow in the sub_407220 function located in /usr/sbin/httpd. The flaw occurs when processing DNS list data, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to manipulate memory layout through carefully crafted input. The vulnerability represents a critical security risk as it enables arbitrary code execution capabilities without requiring local access or authentication. The stack-based buffer overflow stems from insufficient bounds checking in the HTTP daemon's handling of DNS list parameters, where user-supplied data is copied into fixed-size buffers without proper validation. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a direct result of improper input validation and memory management practices. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it operates over the network without requiring any credentials or privileged access, making it accessible to any remote attacker with knowledge of the target system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected device. Remote exploitation allows adversaries to execute malicious code with the privileges of the httpd process, which typically runs with elevated permissions on embedded systems. The compromised device can then be used as a pivot point for further network infiltration, or attackers may install persistent backdoors to maintain long-term access. Additionally, the vulnerability affects the core DNS resolution functionality of the router, potentially enabling DNS poisoning attacks that could redirect traffic to malicious destinations. The fact that this vulnerability exists in a widely deployed embedded firmware solution increases its potential impact across numerous network environments where these devices operate as critical infrastructure components.
Security professionals should implement immediate mitigations including firmware updates to FreshTomato or other supported versions that address this vulnerability, as Shibby Tomato is no longer maintained and superseded by the newer project. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the affected device's HTTP interfaces where possible, though this does not prevent remote exploitation. The vulnerability demonstrates poor software development practices related to input validation and memory management that aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1210 for Exploitation of Remote Services. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, particularly around DNS query processing and HTTP request handling. Regular security audits of embedded device firmware should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other network components.
The vulnerability serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with legacy embedded system software where maintainability and security updates are not properly managed. The lack of ongoing support for Shibby Tomato makes this particular exposure more dangerous, as organizations cannot rely on official patches or security advisories from the original developers. This situation highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date firmware across network infrastructure devices and implementing robust vulnerability management processes that include regular assessment of embedded system components. The technical flaw represents a fundamental breakdown in secure coding practices where buffer overflow protections were not implemented, leaving the system vulnerable to memory corruption attacks that could lead to complete system compromise.