CVE-2024-44563 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the Tenda AX1806 router firmware version 1.0.0.1. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of the iptv.stb.port parameter within the setIptvInfo function. When this parameter is supplied with crafted input, it causes a stack overflow condition (CWE-121), which can overwrite the call stack and potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service. The vulnerability requires an attacker to have local network access and low privileges (PR:L), but does not require user interaction (UI:N). The attack vector is adjacent network (AV:A), meaning exploitation is possible from within the same local or adjacent network segment. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.0, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). No patches or fixes have been published at the time of disclosure, and no known exploits are currently in the wild. The vulnerability is particularly critical because routers are often a network's first line of defense and a compromise could allow attackers to intercept, manipulate, or disrupt network traffic. The lack of authentication bypass means that an attacker with low privileges on the local network can exploit this flaw, increasing the risk in environments where network segmentation or access controls are weak.

The exploitation of CVE-2024-44563 can have severe consequences for organizations. Successful exploitation could lead to complete compromise of the affected router, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. This can result in interception and manipulation of network traffic, unauthorized access to internal networks, and disruption of network availability. The confidentiality of sensitive data traversing the network could be compromised, and the integrity of communications could be undermined. Additionally, attackers could use the compromised router as a foothold to pivot into other internal systems, escalating the scope of the breach. The absence of patches increases the window of exposure, and the requirement for only low privileges and no user interaction lowers the barrier for exploitation. Organizations relying on Tenda AX1806 routers in critical network segments face heightened risks of espionage, data theft, service disruption, and potential lateral movement by attackers.

Given the absence of an official patch, organizations should implement immediate compensating controls. First, restrict access to the router's management interfaces and IPTV configuration endpoints to trusted administrators only, ideally via network segmentation and firewall rules that block unauthorized internal access. Disable IPTV features if not in use to reduce the attack surface. Monitor network traffic for unusual activity indicative of exploitation attempts, such as malformed packets targeting the iptv.stb.port parameter. Employ network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) with custom signatures to detect potential exploitation attempts. Regularly audit and update router firmware to the latest versions once patches become available. Consider replacing vulnerable devices with models from vendors with a stronger security track record if mitigation is not feasible. Finally, educate network administrators about this vulnerability and enforce strict access controls and network hygiene practices to minimize risk.