Overview
A critical vulnerability known as CVE-2025-8160 has been recently discovered in Tenda AC20 devices up to version 16.03.08.12. This vulnerability originates from an unknown function of the file /goform/SetSysTimeCfg of the httpd component. The manipulation of the ‘timeZone’ argument leads to a buffer overflow, which can potentially compromise the system or lead to data leakage. Given the widespread use of these devices, this vulnerability poses a significant threat to both businesses and individual users. It is crucial to address this vulnerability promptly to prevent potential attacks.
Vulnerability Summary
CVE ID: CVE-2025-8160
Severity: Critical – CVSS Score 8.8
Attack Vector: Remote
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: None
Impact: Potential system compromise or data leakage
Affected Products
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Product | Affected Versions
Tenda AC20 | Up to 16.03.08.12
How the Exploit Works
The exploit takes advantage of a buffer overflow vulnerability in the httpd component of the Tenda AC20 device. An attacker can remotely manipulate the ‘timeZone’ argument in the /goform/SetSysTimeCfg file to overflow the buffer, which can lead to arbitrary code execution. This can potentially compromise the system, giving the attacker unauthorized access to sensitive data or control over the device.
Conceptual Example Code
Below is a conceptual example of how an attacker might exploit this vulnerability. The attacker sends a malicious HTTP request to the vulnerable endpoint with an excessively long ‘timeZone’ argument.
POST /goform/SetSysTimeCfg HTTP/1.1
Host: target-device-ip
Content-Type: application/x-www-form-urlencoded
timeZone=AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA...In the above example, the ‘timeZone’ argument is filled with an excessively long string of ‘A’ characters, which is used to illustrate the concept of overflowing the buffer.
Mitigation Guidance
Users of affected Tenda AC20 devices are advised to apply the vendor patch as soon as possible. If the patch cannot be applied immediately, using Web Application Firewalls (WAF) or Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) can serve as a temporary mitigation. These measures can detect and block attempts to exploit the vulnerability. However, they should not be considered a long-term solution as the vulnerability still exists in the system.
Always remember, maintaining an up-to-date system is one of the most effective defenses against cybersecurity threats. Regularly patching and updating your systems can protect you from known vulnerabilities and exploits.