CVE-2024-2485

8.8 HIGH

📋 TL;DR

A critical stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in Tenda AC18 routers allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by manipulating the speed_dir parameter in the formSetSpeedWan function. This affects Tenda AC18 routers running firmware version 15.03.05.05. Attackers can exploit this without authentication to potentially take full control of affected devices.

💻 Affected Systems

Products:
  • Tenda AC18
Versions: 15.03.05.05
Operating Systems: Embedded Linux (router firmware)
Default Config Vulnerable: ⚠️ Yes
Notes: The vulnerable function is part of the web management interface which is typically enabled by default on these routers.

📦 What is this software?

⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact

🔴

Worst Case

Remote code execution leading to complete device compromise, lateral movement to internal networks, persistent backdoor installation, and botnet recruitment.

🟠

Likely Case

Remote code execution allowing attackers to modify router settings, intercept network 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 or if vulnerable interfaces are not exposed.

🌐 Internet-Facing: HIGH - The vulnerability is remotely exploitable and public exploit code exists, making internet-facing devices immediate targets.
🏢 Internal Only: MEDIUM - Internal devices could still be exploited by compromised internal hosts or through phishing/social engineering attacks.

🎯 Exploit Status

Public PoC: ⚠️ Yes
Weaponized: LIKELY
Unauthenticated Exploit: ⚠️ Yes
Complexity: LOW

Public exploit code is available in GitHub repositories, making exploitation straightforward for attackers with basic skills.

🛠️ Fix & Mitigation

✅ Official Fix

Patch Version: Unknown

Vendor Advisory: None available - vendor did not respond to disclosure

Restart Required: No

Instructions:

No official patch available. Consider replacing affected devices or implementing workarounds.

🔧 Temporary Workarounds

Disable Remote Management

all

Disable remote access to the router's web management interface to prevent external exploitation.

Access router admin panel -> Advanced Settings -> System Tools -> Remote Management -> Disable

Network Segmentation

all

Place affected routers in isolated network segments with strict firewall rules.

🧯 If You Can't Patch

  • Replace affected Tenda AC18 routers with devices from vendors that provide security updates
  • Implement strict network access controls to limit exposure of the router's management interface

🔍 How to Verify

Check if Vulnerable:

Check router firmware version via admin panel: Login -> Advanced Settings -> System Status -> Firmware Version

Check Version:

Check web interface or use: curl -s http://router-ip/goform/getStatus | grep version

Verify Fix Applied:

No official fix available to verify. Workarounds can be verified by confirming remote management is disabled and firewall rules are in place.

📡 Detection & Monitoring

Log Indicators:

  • Unusual POST requests to /goform/SetSpeedWan
  • Multiple failed buffer overflow attempts
  • Unexpected process crashes or restarts

Network Indicators:

  • Unusual outbound connections from router
  • Traffic patterns suggesting device compromise
  • Exploit kit traffic targeting router IPs

SIEM Query:

source="router_logs" AND (uri="/goform/SetSpeedWan" OR message="buffer overflow" OR message="segmentation fault")

🔗 References

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