CVE-2025-63666
CVE-2025-63666
Weakness (CWE)
CVSS Vector
v3.1- Attack Vector
- Network
- Attack Complexity
- Low
- Privileges Required
- None
- User Interaction
- None
- Scope
- Unchanged
- Confidentiality
- High
- Integrity
- High
- Availability
- High
Description
Tenda AC15 v15.03.05.18_multi) issues an authentication cookie that exposes the account password hash to the client and uses a short, low-entropy suffix as the session identifier. An attacker with network access or the ability to run JS in a victim browser can steal the cookie and replay it to access protected resources.
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of CVE-2025-63666
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
CVE ID: CVE-2025-63666 CVSS Score: 9.8
The vulnerability in Tenda AC15 v15.03.05.18_multi involves the issuance of an authentication cookie that exposes the account password hash to the client. Additionally, the session identifier uses a short, low-entropy suffix, making it susceptible to replay attacks. The CVSS score of 9.8 indicates a critical severity level, highlighting the significant risk posed by this vulnerability.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
Attack Vectors:
- Network Access: An attacker with network access can intercept the authentication cookie, which contains the password hash.
- JavaScript Injection: An attacker capable of executing JavaScript in the victim's browser (e.g., through cross-site scripting or malicious browser extensions) can steal the cookie.
Exploitation Methods:
- Cookie Theft: By intercepting the cookie, an attacker can extract the password hash and potentially crack it to obtain the plaintext password.
- Replay Attack: The attacker can replay the stolen cookie to gain unauthorized access to protected resources on the Tenda AC15 device.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
Affected Systems:
- Tenda AC15 routers running firmware version v15.03.05.18_multi.
Software Versions:
- Tenda AC15 v15.03.05.18_multi
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
Immediate Actions:
- Firmware Update: Users should immediately update their Tenda AC15 routers to a patched firmware version once available.
- Network Segmentation: Isolate the Tenda AC15 router from other critical network segments to limit potential damage.
- Monitoring: Implement network monitoring to detect any unusual activity that may indicate a compromise.
Long-Term Strategies:
- Regular Patching: Establish a routine for regularly checking and applying firmware updates.
- Strong Authentication: Use strong, unique passwords and consider enabling two-factor authentication if available.
- Secure Configuration: Ensure that the router is configured securely, with unnecessary services disabled and access controls properly set.
5. Impact on Cybersecurity Landscape
This vulnerability underscores the importance of secure authentication mechanisms in network devices. The exposure of password hashes and the use of low-entropy session identifiers highlight common pitfalls in device security. The high CVSS score indicates the potential for widespread impact, particularly in environments where network security is critical.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
Authentication Cookie Structure:
- The authentication cookie contains the account password hash and a short, low-entropy suffix used as the session identifier.
- Example Cookie Structure:
auth_cookie=password_hash:short_suffix
Exploitation Steps:
- Interception: Use network sniffing tools (e.g., Wireshark) to capture the authentication cookie.
- Extraction: Extract the password hash from the captured cookie.
- Replay: Use the stolen cookie to authenticate and access protected resources on the Tenda AC15 router.
Detection:
- Monitor network traffic for unusual patterns that may indicate cookie theft or replay attacks.
- Implement intrusion detection systems (IDS) to alert on suspicious activities related to authentication cookies.
Prevention:
- Ensure that all network devices are running the latest firmware versions.
- Regularly audit and update network device configurations to adhere to best security practices.
Conclusion: CVE-2025-63666 represents a critical vulnerability in Tenda AC15 routers that can be exploited to gain unauthorized access to protected resources. Immediate mitigation strategies include updating firmware, implementing network segmentation, and enhancing monitoring. Long-term, organizations should focus on regular patching, strong authentication, and secure configuration practices to mitigate similar risks in the future.
References:
This analysis provides a comprehensive overview for cybersecurity professionals to understand the vulnerability, its potential impact, and the necessary steps to mitigate the risk effectively.