CVE-2024-33181 identifies a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the Tenda AC18 router firmware version V15.03.3.10_EN. The vulnerability arises from improper input validation of the deviceMac parameter submitted to the ip/goform/addWifiMacFilter endpoint. This endpoint is likely part of the router's web management interface or API that controls MAC address filtering for Wi-Fi access. Because the vulnerability is a classic stack buffer overflow (CWE-121), an attacker can craft a maliciously long or malformed deviceMac parameter to overwrite the stack memory, potentially overwriting the return address or other control data. This enables arbitrary code execution on the device with the privileges of the web server process, which typically runs with elevated rights on embedded devices. The CVSS 3.1 score of 8.8 reflects the vulnerability's high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, combined with its ease of exploitation (low attack complexity), no required privileges, and no user interaction. The attack vector is adjacent network (AV:A), meaning the attacker must be on the same local network or connected via VPN or similar means. Although no public exploits or patches are currently available, the vulnerability is critical due to the potential for complete device compromise, which could lead to network infiltration, persistent malware installation, or denial of service. The lack of a patch increases the urgency for mitigation through network controls and monitoring. The vulnerability was reserved in April 2024 and published in July 2024, indicating recent discovery and disclosure.

The impact of CVE-2024-33181 is severe for organizations using Tenda AC18 routers. Exploitation can lead to full device compromise, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially gaining control over network traffic, intercepting sensitive data, or pivoting to other internal systems. This threatens the confidentiality and integrity of communications passing through the router. Additionally, attackers could disrupt network availability by crashing or disabling the device. Since the router often serves as a gateway for home or small business networks, compromise could facilitate broader attacks such as man-in-the-middle, persistent backdoors, or lateral movement within corporate environments. The vulnerability's exploitation requires no authentication or user interaction, increasing the risk of automated or wormable attacks within local networks. Organizations relying on these devices for critical connectivity or security functions face significant operational and security risks until the vulnerability is remediated.

Given the absence of an official patch, organizations should implement immediate compensating controls. First, restrict access to the router's management interface to trusted administrators only, ideally via a separate management VLAN or out-of-band management network. Disable remote management features if enabled, especially from untrusted networks. Employ network segmentation to isolate vulnerable devices from sensitive systems and limit exposure to local network attackers. Monitor network traffic for unusual requests to the ip/goform/addWifiMacFilter endpoint or anomalous deviceMac parameter values. Use intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) with custom signatures to detect exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability. Regularly audit router firmware versions and subscribe to vendor advisories for patch releases. If possible, replace vulnerable devices with models from vendors with faster security response times. Educate users about the risks of connecting untrusted devices to the network to reduce attack surface. Finally, prepare incident response plans to quickly contain and remediate any detected exploitation.