CVE-2022-25459
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on Tenda AC6 routers via a stack overflow in the SetSysTimeCfg function. Attackers can exploit this by sending specially crafted requests to the vulnerable parameter, potentially gaining full control of affected devices. All users running the vulnerable firmware version are affected.
💻 Affected Systems
- Tenda AC6 wireless router
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete device compromise leading to persistent backdoor installation, network traffic interception, lateral movement to other devices, and participation in botnets.
Likely Case
Remote code execution allowing attackers to modify router settings, intercept traffic, or use the device as a pivot point for further attacks.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if devices are behind firewalls with strict inbound filtering and network segmentation.
🎯 Exploit Status
Public proof-of-concept code exists in GitHub repositories. The vulnerability requires no authentication and has a simple exploitation path.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Check Tenda website for latest firmware > v15.03.05.09
Vendor Advisory: Not publicly documented by vendor
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Visit Tenda support website. 2. Download latest firmware for AC6 model. 3. Log into router web interface. 4. Navigate to System Tools > Firmware Upgrade. 5. Upload and install new firmware. 6. Reboot router.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable remote management
allPrevent external access to router web interface
Log into router > Advanced > System Tools > Remote Management > Disable
Restrict management interface access
allLimit which IPs can access router management
Log into router > Advanced > Security > Access Control > Add allowed IPs only
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate router on separate VLAN with strict firewall rules
- Implement network monitoring for unusual traffic patterns from router
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check firmware version in router web interface: System Status > Firmware Version
Check Version:
curl -s http://router-ip/goform/getStatus | grep version
Verify Fix Applied:
Verify firmware version is newer than v15.03.05.09 and test time configuration function
📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual POST requests to /goform/SetSysTimeCfg
- Multiple failed login attempts followed by time configuration requests
Network Indicators:
- Unusual outbound connections from router
- Traffic patterns suggesting device compromise
SIEM Query:
source="router_logs" AND (uri="/goform/SetSysTimeCfg" OR parameter="S1")