CVE-2025-12618 is a buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the Tenda AC8 router firmware version 16.03.34.06. The vulnerability resides in an unspecified function handling the /goform/DatabaseIniSet endpoint, specifically through the manipulation of the 'Time' parameter. This improper input validation leads to a buffer overflow condition, which can be triggered remotely without requiring authentication or user interaction. The vulnerability's CVSS 4.0 score of 8.7 reflects its high severity, with an attack vector classified as network-based and low attack complexity. The impact metrics indicate high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts, meaning an attacker could execute arbitrary code remotely, potentially taking full control of the device. The exploit has been publicly disclosed, increasing the likelihood of exploitation, although no active exploitation has been reported yet. The affected product, Tenda AC8, is a widely used consumer and small business router, often deployed in home and small office networks. The lack of available patches at the time of disclosure necessitates immediate defensive measures to prevent compromise. This vulnerability poses a significant risk as compromised routers can be used as entry points into internal networks, facilitate man-in-the-middle attacks, or be conscripted into botnets.

For European organizations, the exploitation of CVE-2025-12618 could lead to severe consequences. Compromised Tenda AC8 routers could allow attackers to gain unauthorized remote access to internal networks, bypass perimeter defenses, and intercept or manipulate sensitive communications. This is particularly critical for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and remote workers who rely on these routers for secure connectivity. The integrity and availability of network services could be disrupted, potentially affecting business operations and data confidentiality. Additionally, attackers could leverage compromised routers to launch further attacks within the network or use them as part of distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) campaigns. Given the public availability of the exploit, the risk of targeted or opportunistic attacks against European entities is elevated. The impact is exacerbated in sectors with high security requirements such as finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, where network device compromise could have cascading effects.

Immediate mitigation steps include isolating affected Tenda AC8 devices from untrusted networks and restricting remote access to the /goform/DatabaseIniSet endpoint through firewall rules or network segmentation. Organizations should monitor network traffic for unusual activity indicative of exploitation attempts. Since no official patches are currently available, users should consider replacing vulnerable devices with models from vendors with active security support. Applying network-level protections such as intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) configured to detect buffer overflow attempts targeting this endpoint can reduce risk. Enforcing strong network access controls and disabling remote management features on these routers can further limit exposure. Once Tenda releases a firmware update addressing this vulnerability, immediate deployment is critical. Additionally, organizations should educate users about the risks of using outdated router firmware and encourage regular updates as part of cybersecurity hygiene.