CVE-2023-25104 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the Milesight UR32L device firmware version 32.3.0.5. The vulnerability exists in the vtysh_ubus binary, specifically within the set_ike_profile function, which processes username and password parameters. The root cause is the unsafe use of the sprintf function, which does not properly validate input length, leading to buffer overflow conditions (CWE-121). An attacker possessing high-level privileges on the device can craft malicious HTTP requests targeting this function, causing memory corruption that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code on the device. This can compromise the device’s confidentiality, integrity, and availability, potentially allowing attackers to take full control, disrupt network operations, or pivot to other internal systems. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require the attacker to have high privileges, likely meaning authenticated access or access to a trusted network segment. Although no public exploits have been reported, the vulnerability’s CVSS score of 7.2 (high) reflects its serious impact and relatively low complexity of exploitation. The absence of a patch at the time of reporting necessitates immediate mitigation efforts to reduce exposure. This vulnerability is particularly concerning for organizations relying on Milesight UR32L devices for VPN or network edge functions, as exploitation could undermine network security and operational stability.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be significant, especially for those using Milesight UR32L devices in critical network infrastructure, such as VPN gateways or remote access points. Successful exploitation can lead to full device compromise, allowing attackers to intercept or manipulate sensitive communications, disrupt network availability, or use the device as a foothold for lateral movement within the network. This could affect confidentiality of data, integrity of network configurations, and availability of network services. In sectors such as finance, healthcare, energy, and government, where secure and reliable network connectivity is essential, the consequences could include data breaches, operational downtime, and regulatory non-compliance. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks against organizations with high-value assets or strategic importance in Europe. The requirement for high privileges limits the attack surface but does not eliminate risk, as insider threats or compromised credentials could enable exploitation.

1. Immediately restrict HTTP access to the management interface of Milesight UR32L devices to trusted IP addresses or VPNs to limit exposure to potential attackers. 2. Enforce strong authentication mechanisms and regularly audit user accounts with high privileges to reduce the risk of credential compromise. 3. Monitor network traffic for unusual or malformed HTTP requests targeting the device’s management interface, which could indicate exploitation attempts. 4. Implement network segmentation to isolate management interfaces from general user networks and the internet. 5. Engage with the vendor to obtain patches or firmware updates addressing this vulnerability as soon as they become available and apply them promptly. 6. If patching is not immediately possible, consider temporary mitigations such as disabling vulnerable services or using web application firewalls (WAFs) to filter malicious requests. 7. Conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing focused on network edge devices to detect similar issues proactively. 8. Maintain comprehensive logging and alerting on device management activities to facilitate rapid incident response.