CVE-2025-15541 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-59 (Improper Link Resolution Before File Access, also known as 'Link Following') affecting the TP-Link VX800v version 1.0. The flaw exists in the device's SFTP service, which improperly resolves symbolic links before accessing files. An attacker with authenticated access and network adjacency can craft symbolic links that cause the SFTP service to access unintended system files outside the intended directory scope. This leads primarily to a confidentiality breach, as sensitive system files may be read, while the integrity impact is limited since the vulnerability does not inherently allow file modification. The attack vector requires the attacker to have high privileges (authenticated user with elevated rights) and network adjacency, meaning the attacker must be on the same local network or VPN segment. No user interaction is required, and the vulnerability does not affect availability or authentication mechanisms beyond the need for high privileges. The CVSS 4.0 score of 6.9 reflects a medium severity, balancing the high confidentiality impact against the requirement for authentication and adjacency. No patches or known exploits are currently available, indicating the vulnerability is newly disclosed and unexploited in the wild. The vulnerability highlights a common security weakness in handling symbolic links, which can lead to unauthorized file access if not properly validated.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-15541 is the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive system files on TP-Link VX800v devices. This can include configuration files, credentials, or other critical data stored on the device, which could facilitate further attacks or data breaches. Organizations in sectors such as telecommunications, critical infrastructure, and enterprise networks that deploy VX800v devices for network management or communication services are at particular risk. The confidentiality breach could lead to exposure of internal network details or security configurations, undermining trust and compliance with data protection regulations like GDPR. The limited integrity risk means attackers are less likely to alter system files directly, but the information gained could enable subsequent attacks. Since exploitation requires authenticated access and network adjacency, the threat is more relevant to insider threats or attackers who have already compromised part of the network. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but also means organizations should proactively address the vulnerability to prevent future exploitation.

1. Restrict SFTP service access on VX800v devices to trusted administrators and secure network segments, minimizing the number of users with authenticated access. 2. Implement network segmentation and strict access controls to limit adjacency exposure, ensuring that only authorized devices and users can reach the SFTP service. 3. Monitor SFTP logs and system file access patterns for unusual symbolic link usage or access to sensitive files outside expected directories. 4. Employ host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS) to detect anomalous file access behaviors on VX800v devices. 5. Coordinate with TP-Link for timely security patches or firmware updates addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once available. 6. Consider temporary compensating controls such as disabling the SFTP service if not essential or replacing it with more secure file transfer mechanisms. 7. Conduct regular security audits and penetration tests focusing on symbolic link handling and file access controls within network devices. 8. Educate network administrators about the risks of symbolic link vulnerabilities and the importance of strict privilege management.