CVE-2024-51116 identifies a buffer overflow vulnerability in the Tenda AC6 v2.0 router firmware version V15.03.06.50, specifically within the 'formSetPPTPServer' function. Buffer overflow vulnerabilities occur when a program writes more data to a buffer than it can hold, leading to memory corruption that attackers can exploit to execute arbitrary code. This vulnerability is remotely exploitable without requiring authentication or user interaction, increasing its threat level. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 8.8 reflects its high severity, with attack vector being adjacent network (AV:A), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), and full impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). The flaw falls under CWE-120, a classic buffer overflow category, indicating improper input validation or bounds checking in the vulnerable function. The 'formSetPPTPServer' function likely handles configuration related to PPTP VPN server settings, which may be exposed via the router’s web interface or network services. Exploiting this vulnerability could allow attackers to gain control over the device, intercept or manipulate network traffic, or disrupt network availability. No patches or fixes have been published yet, and no known exploits have been observed in the wild, but the potential for exploitation remains high given the ease of attack and impact. Organizations relying on Tenda AC6 routers should monitor for updates and apply network-level controls to mitigate risk.

The impact of CVE-2024-51116 is significant for organizations using Tenda AC6 v2.0 routers, as successful exploitation can lead to full compromise of the device. Attackers could execute arbitrary code remotely, potentially gaining administrative control over the router. This control could be leveraged to intercept sensitive data, manipulate network traffic, launch further attacks within the internal network, or cause denial of service by disrupting router functionality. The vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability simultaneously, posing a comprehensive threat to network security. Given that routers serve as critical network gateways, compromise could also facilitate lateral movement to other connected systems. The lack of authentication and user interaction requirements lowers the barrier for attackers, increasing the likelihood of exploitation once an exploit becomes available. Organizations in sectors with high reliance on secure network infrastructure, such as finance, healthcare, and government, face elevated risks. Additionally, home users and small businesses using this router model may be vulnerable to attacks that could lead to privacy breaches or network outages.

Since no official patches are currently available for CVE-2024-51116, organizations should implement immediate compensating controls. First, restrict access to the router’s management interfaces by limiting them to trusted internal networks and disabling remote management if not necessary. Employ network segmentation to isolate vulnerable devices from critical assets. Use firewall rules to block unnecessary protocols and ports associated with PPTP or router management. Monitor network traffic for unusual patterns indicative of exploitation attempts, such as malformed packets targeting the router. Regularly check for firmware updates from Tenda and apply them promptly once a patch addressing this vulnerability is released. Consider replacing vulnerable devices with models from vendors with more robust security track records if long-term mitigation is required. Additionally, educate network administrators about this vulnerability to ensure rapid response to any suspicious activity. Deploy intrusion detection or prevention systems capable of recognizing buffer overflow attack signatures targeting routers. Finally, maintain comprehensive backups of router configurations to enable quick recovery if compromise occurs.