CVE-2025-50653 Overview
A buffer overflow vulnerability exists in D-Link DI-8003 router firmware version 16.07.26A1 due to improper handling of the name and mem parameters in the /time_group.asp endpoint. This firmware vulnerability affects network infrastructure devices and could potentially allow attackers to compromise the affected router through malicious input to the vulnerable web interface endpoint.
Critical Impact
Buffer overflow in D-Link DI-8003 router firmware could allow attackers to corrupt memory and potentially gain control of the network device through the vulnerable /time_group.asp endpoint.
Affected Products
- D-Link DI-8003 firmware version 16.07.26A1
- D-Link DI-8003 routers running vulnerable firmware versions
Discovery Timeline
- 2026-04-08 - CVE-2025-50653 published to NVD
- 2026-04-08 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2025-50653
Vulnerability Analysis
This buffer overflow vulnerability originates from improper input validation in the D-Link DI-8003 router's web management interface. The vulnerable endpoint /time_group.asp fails to properly validate the length and content of user-supplied input through the name and mem parameters before copying them into fixed-size memory buffers.
When an attacker supplies specially crafted input that exceeds the expected buffer boundaries, the overflow can corrupt adjacent memory locations. In embedded network devices like routers, such memory corruption can have severe consequences including denial of service, arbitrary code execution, or complete device compromise.
The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it exists in the device's web interface, which is typically accessible from the local network and potentially from the internet if remote management is enabled.
Root Cause
The root cause of this vulnerability is improper bounds checking when processing the name and mem parameters in the /time_group.asp endpoint. The firmware code accepts user input without validating that the data length fits within the allocated buffer space, leading to a classic buffer overflow condition. This is a common issue in embedded device firmware where memory safety measures are often limited.
Attack Vector
An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending a malicious HTTP request to the /time_group.asp endpoint with oversized values in the name or mem parameters. The attack would typically be carried out from the local network, though devices with remote management enabled may be exploitable from the internet.
The exploitation process involves:
- Identifying a vulnerable D-Link DI-8003 device running firmware version 16.07.26A1
- Crafting an HTTP request to /time_group.asp with malicious payload in the name or mem parameters
- Sending the request to trigger the buffer overflow and corrupt memory
- Depending on the specifics of the overflow, achieving denial of service or code execution
For detailed technical information about this vulnerability, refer to the GitHub IoT Vulnerability Collection.
Detection Methods for CVE-2025-50653
Indicators of Compromise
- Unusual HTTP requests targeting /time_group.asp with abnormally long parameter values
- Unexpected router reboots or crashes that may indicate exploitation attempts
- Suspicious modifications to router configuration or firmware
- Anomalous outbound network traffic from the router device
Detection Strategies
- Monitor HTTP traffic to D-Link routers for requests to /time_group.asp containing unusually long name or mem parameter values
- Implement network intrusion detection rules to identify potential buffer overflow exploitation patterns against D-Link devices
- Review router logs for authentication anomalies or configuration changes
- Deploy network traffic analysis to detect command and control communications from compromised devices
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enable logging on D-Link DI-8003 devices and forward logs to a centralized SIEM for analysis
- Monitor for firmware integrity by periodically checking device configuration and firmware versions
- Implement network segmentation to isolate IoT and network infrastructure devices
- Set up alerts for any access attempts to administrative interfaces from unexpected sources
How to Mitigate CVE-2025-50653
Immediate Actions Required
- Identify all D-Link DI-8003 devices in your network running firmware version 16.07.26A1
- Disable remote management access to the device's web interface if not required
- Restrict access to the router's administrative interface to trusted IP addresses only
- Monitor the D-Link Security Bulletin page for firmware updates addressing this vulnerability
- Consider placing vulnerable devices behind additional network security controls
Patch Information
At the time of publication, check the D-Link Security Bulletin for official patches or firmware updates addressing CVE-2025-50653. Device owners should regularly monitor D-Link's security advisories and apply any available updates as soon as they are released.
Workarounds
- Restrict access to the router's web management interface to trusted internal hosts only using firewall rules
- Disable the web management interface entirely if it is not required for operations
- Implement network segmentation to limit potential lateral movement if the device is compromised
- Consider replacing end-of-life devices that may not receive security updates
Network administrators should implement access control lists on the router to limit which hosts can reach the administrative interface:
# Example: Restrict management access via firewall/ACL
# Allow only specific trusted management IP to access web interface
# Block external access to port 80/443 on the router
# Implement network segmentation for IoT devices
# Note: Specific configuration syntax varies by network environment
# Consult D-Link documentation for device-specific ACL configuration
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
