CVE-2025-15164 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the Tenda WH450 router firmware version 1.0.0.18. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of the 'page' argument in the /goform/SafeMacFilter endpoint, which allows an attacker to overflow the stack buffer. This flaw can be triggered remotely over the network without requiring authentication or user interaction, making it highly exploitable. The buffer overflow can lead to arbitrary code execution with elevated privileges, potentially allowing attackers to take full control of the affected device. The vulnerability has been assigned a CVSS 4.0 score of 8.6, reflecting its high severity due to network attack vector, low complexity, no privileges required, and no user interaction needed. While no confirmed exploits in the wild have been reported yet, a public exploit has been released, increasing the likelihood of exploitation. The affected product, Tenda WH450, is a consumer and small business router model commonly deployed in various global markets. The lack of an official patch at the time of disclosure necessitates immediate mitigation efforts to reduce exposure. This vulnerability can be leveraged to disrupt network availability, intercept or manipulate network traffic, or establish persistent unauthorized access within targeted networks.

The impact of CVE-2025-15164 is significant for organizations and individuals using Tenda WH450 routers. Successful exploitation can lead to full compromise of the device, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with high privileges. This can result in unauthorized network access, interception or manipulation of sensitive data, disruption of network services, and potential lateral movement within internal networks. For enterprises relying on these routers for perimeter or internal segmentation, the vulnerability could serve as an entry point for broader attacks. The remote and unauthenticated nature of the exploit increases the risk of widespread attacks, especially in environments where these devices are exposed to untrusted networks or the internet. Additionally, the public availability of an exploit increases the likelihood of automated scanning and exploitation attempts by malicious actors. The vulnerability could also be leveraged in botnet campaigns or as part of multi-stage attacks targeting critical infrastructure or high-value targets using Tenda devices.

To mitigate CVE-2025-15164, organizations should immediately assess their network for the presence of Tenda WH450 routers running firmware version 1.0.0.18. Since no official patch is currently available, the following specific actions are recommended: 1) Restrict access to the router's management interface by implementing network segmentation and firewall rules to block external access to the /goform/SafeMacFilter endpoint and related services. 2) Disable remote management features if not required, especially WAN-side access to the router's web interface. 3) Monitor network traffic for unusual requests targeting the vulnerable endpoint and implement intrusion detection/prevention signatures to detect exploitation attempts. 4) Consider replacing affected devices with models from vendors with timely security update practices if patching is not feasible. 5) Stay informed about vendor updates or patches and apply them promptly once available. 6) Employ network-level protections such as VPNs or zero-trust architectures to limit exposure of critical network devices. 7) Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability scans to identify and remediate similar risks proactively.