CVE-2023-49044
📋 TL;DR
A stack overflow vulnerability in Tenda AX1803 routers allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by sending specially crafted requests to the ssid parameter in the form_fast_setting_wifi_set function. This affects all users running vulnerable firmware versions of the Tenda AX1803 router. Successful exploitation gives attackers full control of the device.
💻 Affected Systems
- Tenda AX1803
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete compromise of the router allowing attackers to intercept all network traffic, install persistent malware, pivot to internal network devices, and use the device as part of a botnet.
Likely Case
Router takeover leading to DNS hijacking, credential theft from network traffic, and installation of backdoors for persistent access.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if device is behind firewall with restricted WAN access, though internal attackers could still exploit.
🎯 Exploit Status
Public GitHub repository contains detailed vulnerability analysis and proof-of-concept code. Exploitation requires network access to the router's web interface.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Unknown
Vendor Advisory: Not available
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Check Tenda's official website for firmware updates
2. Download latest firmware for AX1803
3. Access 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
Network Segmentation
allIsolate router management interface to trusted network segment
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Replace vulnerable router with different model/brand
- Place router behind firewall with strict inbound rules blocking all WAN access to management interface
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check router firmware version in web interface under System Status or System Tools > Firmware UpgradeCheck Version:
curl -s http://router-ip/goform/getStatus | grep versionVerify Fix Applied:
Verify firmware version is newer than v1.0.0.1 and test if exploit payloads no longer work📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual POST requests to /goform/form_fast_setting_wifi_set with long ssid parameters
- Multiple failed login attempts followed by successful exploit
Network Indicators:
- Unusual outbound connections from router
- DNS queries to suspicious domains
- Traffic patterns indicating command and control communication
SIEM Query:
source="router_logs" AND (uri="/goform/form_fast_setting_wifi_set" AND content_length>1000)