CVE-2025-15545 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-20 (Improper Input Validation) affecting the TP-Link Archer RE605X device. The issue arises in the backup restore function, which fails to properly validate or sanitize unexpected or unrecognized tags within backup files. When a crafted backup file containing malicious tags is restored, these tags are interpreted by the device's shell environment, enabling an attacker to execute arbitrary commands with root-level privileges. This level of access allows full compromise of the device, including unauthorized disclosure or modification of data and disruption of device availability. The vulnerability has a CVSS 4.0 score of 7.3, indicating high severity, with attack vector being adjacent network (AV:A), requiring high attack complexity (AC:H), no privileges required (PR:H), and no user interaction (UI:N). The vulnerability does not currently have publicly known exploits in the wild, but the potential impact is significant given the root-level access it grants. The affected product is the Archer RE605X, a consumer and small business Wi-Fi extender device by TP-Link. The flaw highlights a critical failure in input validation during backup restoration, a process that is often trusted and automated, making it a prime target for exploitation if access to the backup restore function is obtained. No patches are currently listed, emphasizing the need for vendor action and interim mitigations.

For European organizations, exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to complete compromise of affected Archer RE605X devices, which may be used in home offices, small businesses, or branch networks. Root-level access enables attackers to intercept or manipulate network traffic, deploy persistent malware, or disrupt network connectivity, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability. This could facilitate lateral movement into corporate networks, data exfiltration, or denial of service conditions. Given the device's role as a network extender, its compromise could undermine network security controls and monitoring. Organizations relying on these devices for critical connectivity or remote access may face operational disruptions and increased risk of broader network compromise. The absence of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially if attackers develop exploits targeting this vulnerability. The high attack complexity and requirement for adjacent network access somewhat limit remote exploitation but do not preclude insider threats or attacks from compromised local networks.

1. Restrict access to the backup restore functionality by limiting administrative privileges and network access to trusted personnel and systems only. 2. Monitor network segments where Archer RE605X devices are deployed for unusual backup restore activity or unexpected configuration changes. 3. Implement network segmentation to isolate these devices from critical infrastructure and sensitive data environments. 4. Regularly audit device configurations and backup files for unauthorized or suspicious modifications. 5. Apply vendor patches promptly once released; engage with TP-Link support to obtain timelines and interim fixes. 6. Educate users and administrators about the risks of restoring backups from untrusted sources. 7. Consider replacing or supplementing vulnerable devices with alternatives that have robust security postures if patching is delayed. 8. Employ network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) to detect anomalous shell command executions or backup restore attempts. 9. Maintain up-to-date inventory of all network devices to quickly identify affected units and prioritize remediation efforts.