CVE-2023-51968
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on Tenda AX1803 routers via a stack overflow in the getIptvInfo function. Attackers can exploit this by sending specially crafted requests to the adv.iptv.stballvlans parameter. All users running the vulnerable firmware version are affected.
💻 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 connected 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
Denial of service or limited information disclosure if exploit attempts are detected and blocked by security controls.
🎯 Exploit Status
The vulnerability is well-documented with technical details available, making exploitation straightforward for attackers with basic skills.
🛠️ 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. If available, download the latest firmware. 3. Log into router admin interface. 4. Navigate to System Tools > Firmware Upgrade. 5. Upload and install the new firmware. 6. Reboot the router.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable remote management
allPrevent external access to the router's web interface
Log into router admin > Advanced > System Tools > Remote Management > Disable
Restrict admin interface access
allLimit which devices can access the router's admin interface
Log into router admin > Advanced > Security > Access Control > Enable and configure IP/MAC filtering
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Replace the router with a different model from a vendor that provides security updates
- Place the router behind a firewall that blocks all inbound traffic to its management interface
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check firmware version in router admin interface: System Status > Firmware Version. If it shows v1.0.0.1, the device is vulnerable.Check Version:
curl -s http://router-ip/goform/getStatus | grep versionVerify Fix Applied:
After updating, verify firmware version is no longer v1.0.0.1. Test by attempting to access the vulnerable endpoint with monitoring for crash/restart.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Repeated POST requests to /goform/getIptvInfo
- Router crash/restart logs
- Unusual process execution in system logs
Network Indicators:
- HTTP requests containing long strings in adv.iptv.stballvlans parameter
- Traffic to router's web interface from unexpected sources
SIEM Query:
source="router.log" AND (uri_path="/goform/getIptvInfo" OR "adv.iptv.stballvlans")