CVE-2025-14992 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the Tenda AC18 router firmware version 15.03.05.05. The vulnerability resides in the HTTP request handler component, specifically in the strcpy function used in the /goform/GetParentControlInfo endpoint. The flaw arises from improper validation or bounds checking of the 'mac' parameter passed to strcpy, allowing an attacker to overflow the stack buffer. This overflow can corrupt adjacent memory, potentially enabling remote code execution or denial of service. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable over the network without requiring authentication or user interaction, making it highly dangerous. The CVSS 4.0 vector indicates network attack vector (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (VC:H/VI:H/VA:H). Although no known exploits are currently observed in the wild, the public disclosure of exploit code raises the likelihood of imminent attacks. The lack of official patches or mitigation guidance from the vendor increases the urgency for organizations to implement compensating controls. This vulnerability affects a widely used consumer and small business router model, which could be targeted for network infiltration, data interception, or lateral movement within compromised networks.

The impact of CVE-2025-14992 is significant for organizations using Tenda AC18 routers, especially in environments where these devices serve as primary network gateways. Successful exploitation can lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to gain full control over the router. This compromises the confidentiality of network traffic, integrity of network configurations, and availability of network services. Attackers could intercept or manipulate sensitive data, deploy malware, pivot to internal networks, or disrupt connectivity. Given the router’s role in home and small business networks, exploitation could facilitate broader attacks on connected devices or corporate resources accessed remotely. The ease of exploitation without authentication or user interaction increases the risk of automated mass scanning and exploitation campaigns. The absence of patches means organizations face prolonged exposure, increasing the window for attackers to exploit this vulnerability. The potential for widespread impact is heightened by the public availability of exploit code, which lowers the barrier for attackers of varying skill levels.

1. Immediately isolate affected Tenda AC18 devices from critical networks to reduce exposure until a patch is available. 2. Monitor network traffic for unusual requests targeting /goform/GetParentControlInfo or suspicious 'mac' parameter values indicative of exploitation attempts. 3. Implement network-level filtering or firewall rules to block external access to the router’s management interface, especially from untrusted networks. 4. Disable remote management features on the router if enabled, to limit attack surface. 5. Regularly check Tenda’s official channels for firmware updates or security advisories addressing this vulnerability and apply patches promptly once released. 6. Employ network segmentation to limit the impact of a compromised router on sensitive internal systems. 7. Use intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) with signatures for this vulnerability once available. 8. Consider replacing vulnerable devices with models from vendors with stronger security track records if patching is delayed. 9. Educate users and administrators about the risks of exposing router management interfaces and the importance of strong network security hygiene.