CVE-2023-49425
📋 TL;DR
CVE-2023-49425 is a critical stack overflow vulnerability in Tenda AX12 routers that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by sending specially crafted requests to the /goform/setMacFilterCfg endpoint. This affects all users running vulnerable firmware versions, potentially giving attackers full control over affected devices.
💻 Affected Systems
- Tenda AX12
📦 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 device is behind firewall with restricted WAN access, though internal network attacks remain possible.
🎯 Exploit Status
Public proof-of-concept exists in GitHub repository. Exploitation requires sending crafted HTTP POST 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 AX12
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
Network segmentation
allIsolate router management interface to separate VLAN
🧯 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 admin interface under System Status. If version is V22.03.01.46 or earlier, device is vulnerable.Check Version:
curl -s http://router-ip/goform/getStatus | grep versionVerify Fix Applied:
Verify firmware version has been updated to a version later than V22.03.01.46📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- HTTP POST requests to /goform/setMacFilterCfg with large deviceList parameter
- Unusual process execution or memory errors in router logs
Network Indicators:
- HTTP traffic to router IP on port 80/443 with POST to /goform/setMacFilterCfg
- Unusual outbound connections from router
SIEM Query:
source="router_logs" AND (uri="/goform/setMacFilterCfg" OR process="memory_error")