CVE-2022-30075: TP-Link Archer AX50 RCE Vulnerability

CVE-2022-30075 Overview

CVE-2022-30075 is a remote code execution vulnerability affecting TP-Link Archer AX50 routers running firmware version 210730 and older. The vulnerability exists in the router's web interface backup file import functionality, where improper validation of backup files allows attackers to import malicious backup files that execute arbitrary code on the affected device.

Critical Impact

Authenticated attackers can achieve remote code execution on vulnerable TP-Link Archer AX50 routers by importing a specially crafted backup file through the web interface, potentially leading to complete device compromise.

Affected Products

• TP-Link Archer AX50 Firmware version 210730 and older
• TP-Link Archer AX50 Hardware

Discovery Timeline

• 2022-06-09 - CVE-2022-30075 published to NVD
• 2024-11-21 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2022-30075

Vulnerability Analysis

This vulnerability is a firmware vulnerability that enables remote code execution through the router's web management interface. The flaw stems from insufficient validation of backup configuration files during the import process. When a user imports a backup file through the web interface, the router fails to properly validate and sanitize the contents of the file before processing it. This allows an attacker with authenticated access to the router's web interface to craft a malicious backup file containing arbitrary commands or code that will be executed when the file is processed by the router.

The attack requires the attacker to have valid credentials to access the router's administrative web interface. Once authenticated, the attacker can navigate to the backup/restore functionality and upload a specially crafted backup file. The router's improper validation allows malicious content within the backup file to be interpreted and executed with elevated privileges on the device.

Root Cause

The root cause of CVE-2022-30075 is improper input validation in the backup file import functionality. The router's firmware does not adequately verify that imported backup files contain only legitimate configuration data. Instead of performing strict validation on file contents, the system processes the backup file in a manner that allows embedded commands or code to be executed. This represents a classic case of trusting user-supplied input without proper sanitization.

Attack Vector

The attack vector for this vulnerability is network-based, requiring authenticated access to the router's web management interface. An attacker would need to:

1. Obtain valid credentials for the router's administrative interface (through default credentials, phishing, credential theft, or other means)
2. Access the router's web management interface
3. Navigate to the backup/restore configuration section
4. Upload a maliciously crafted backup file containing embedded code or commands
5. The router processes the malicious backup file, executing the attacker's payload

The exploitation technique involves manipulating the backup file format to inject malicious content that the router will execute during the import process. Detailed technical information about the exploit methodology is available in the GitHub CVE-2022-30075 Repository and the Packet Storm Security Advisory.

Detection Methods for CVE-2022-30075

Indicators of Compromise

• Unexpected backup file imports logged in router administration history
• Modified router configurations without authorized administrator actions
• Unusual outbound network connections from the router to unknown external addresses
• Changes to router firmware or unauthorized services running on the device
• Evidence of administrative login attempts followed by configuration changes

Detection Strategies

• Monitor router administration logs for backup file import operations, especially from unusual IP addresses
• Implement network monitoring to detect anomalous traffic patterns originating from router devices
• Deploy intrusion detection rules to identify known exploit patterns associated with CVE-2022-30075
• Regularly audit router configurations for unauthorized modifications

Monitoring Recommendations

• Enable and regularly review router administrative access logs
• Implement network segmentation to limit access to router management interfaces
• Configure alerts for any backup/restore operations performed on network devices
• Monitor for indicators of compromise using network traffic analysis tools

How to Mitigate CVE-2022-30075

Immediate Actions Required

• Update TP-Link Archer AX50 firmware to a version newer than 210730 immediately
• Change default administrative credentials on all TP-Link router devices
• Restrict access to the router's web management interface to trusted networks only
• Disable remote management if not required for operations
• Audit recent backup/restore operations for signs of exploitation

Patch Information

TP-Link has addressed this vulnerability in firmware versions released after 210730. Administrators should visit the TP-Link Official Website to download the latest firmware for the Archer AX50 router. The firmware update process involves downloading the appropriate firmware file and applying it through the router's web interface. Exploit code is publicly available on Exploit-DB #50962, making prompt patching essential.

Workarounds

• Disable the backup/restore functionality in the web interface if firmware updates cannot be applied immediately
• Implement network access controls to limit who can access the router's management interface
• Use firewall rules to restrict management interface access to specific IP addresses
• Consider placing the router management interface on a separate VLAN with strict access controls
• Monitor for and block known exploit attempts using network security tools