CVE-2023-44019
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on Tenda AC10U routers via a stack overflow in the GetParentControlInfo function. Attackers can exploit this by sending specially crafted requests to the vulnerable parameter. All users of the affected router model and firmware version are at risk.
💻 Affected Systems
- Tenda AC10U
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete device compromise leading to persistent backdoor installation, network traffic interception, and lateral movement to other devices on the network.
Likely Case
Remote code execution allowing attackers to modify router settings, intercept traffic, or use the device as part of a botnet.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if device is behind firewall with restricted WAN access and proper network segmentation.
🎯 Exploit Status
Public GitHub repository contains detailed analysis and proof-of-concept. Exploitation requires sending crafted HTTP request to vulnerable endpoint.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Unknown
Vendor Advisory: Not available
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Check Tenda website for firmware updates. 2. Download latest firmware for AC10U. 3. Log into router admin 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 admin > Advanced > System Tools > Remote Management > Disable
Network Segmentation
allIsolate router management interface from untrusted networks
Configure firewall rules to block WAN access to router admin interface (typically port 80/443)
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Replace vulnerable router with different model/brand
- Place router behind dedicated firewall with strict inbound rules
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check router firmware version in admin interface under System Status or Firmware Upgrade page.Check Version:
curl -s http://router-ip/goform/getStatus | grep -i versionVerify Fix Applied:
Verify firmware version has changed from vulnerable version V15.03.06.49 to newer version.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual HTTP POST requests to /goform/GetParentControlInfo
- Multiple failed login attempts followed by exploitation attempts
- Router reboot logs after exploitation
Network Indicators:
- Unusual outbound connections from router
- Traffic to known C2 servers
- Port scanning originating from router
SIEM Query:
source="router.log" AND ("GetParentControlInfo" OR "mac parameter overflow")