CVE-2023-49043
📋 TL;DR
A buffer overflow vulnerability in Tenda AX1803 routers allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by sending specially crafted data to the wpapsk_crypto parameter. This affects all users running the vulnerable firmware version, potentially giving attackers full control over affected devices.
💻 Affected Systems
- Tenda AX1803
📦 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 botnet recruitment.
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
Detailed technical analysis and proof-of-concept available in public GitHub repository. Exploitation appears straightforward with publicly documented payloads.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Unknown
Vendor Advisory: Not found
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Check Tenda support website for firmware updates
2. Download latest firmware for AX1803
3. Access router admin interface
4. Navigate to firmware upgrade section
5. Upload and apply new firmware
6. Reboot router after update completes
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable Wireless Repeater Function
allDisable the vulnerable fromSetWirelessRepeat functionality if not required
Network Segmentation
allPlace router on isolated network segment with strict firewall rules
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict network access controls to limit WAN access to router management interface
- Monitor for unusual network traffic patterns and connection attempts to router management ports
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check router firmware version in admin interface. If version is exactly 1.0.0.1, device is vulnerable.Check Version:
Check via router web interface at http://router_ip or via SSH if enabled: cat /etc/versionVerify Fix Applied:
Verify firmware version has been updated to a version later than 1.0.0.1📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual POST requests to router management interface
- Large payloads sent to wpapsk_crypto parameter
- Unexpected process execution or system reboots
Network Indicators:
- Unusual outbound connections from router
- Traffic spikes on router management ports
- Suspicious payloads in HTTP requests to router
SIEM Query:
source="router_logs" AND (uri="*fromSetWirelessRepeat*" OR param="*wpapsk_crypto*") AND size>1000