CVE-2025-29331 is a remote code execution vulnerability affecting versions of the MHSanaei 3x-ui management interface prior to version 2.5.3. The vulnerability arises because the management script 'x-ui' uses the wget utility to download updates while passing the 'no check certificate' option. This option disables SSL/TLS certificate validation, allowing an attacker positioned in a man-in-the-middle (MitM) role to intercept and manipulate the update download process. By exploiting this flaw, an attacker can deliver a malicious payload disguised as a legitimate update, which the management script will execute with the privileges of the user running the script. Since the vulnerability is in the update mechanism, it can lead to arbitrary code execution remotely without requiring authentication or user interaction. The lack of certificate validation effectively undermines the security guarantees of encrypted update delivery, exposing the system to injection of malicious code. Although no known exploits are reported in the wild yet, the vulnerability presents a significant risk due to the ease of exploitation and the potential for full system compromise. The absence of a CVSS score suggests this is a newly disclosed vulnerability, but the technical details indicate a high severity threat.

For European organizations using MHSanaei 3x-ui, this vulnerability could have severe consequences. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized remote code execution, allowing attackers to gain control over critical management interfaces. This could result in data breaches, disruption of services, or use of compromised systems as footholds for lateral movement within corporate networks. Given that the vulnerability affects the update mechanism, attackers could persistently maintain access by delivering malicious updates. This undermines system integrity and availability, potentially impacting business continuity and regulatory compliance, especially under GDPR where data protection is paramount. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure are particularly at risk due to the sensitive nature of their data and the criticality of their systems. The vulnerability also raises concerns about supply chain security, as attackers could compromise update delivery channels. The lack of authentication or user interaction requirements increases the threat level, making it easier for attackers to exploit the vulnerability remotely.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should immediately upgrade MHSanaei 3x-ui to version 2.5.3 or later, where the issue has been addressed. If upgrading is not immediately feasible, organizations should implement network-level protections such as strict TLS interception policies and monitoring for anomalous wget traffic. Employing network segmentation to isolate management interfaces can reduce exposure. Additionally, organizations should verify the integrity and authenticity of updates through out-of-band mechanisms or cryptographic signatures independent of the vulnerable update process. Monitoring and logging of update activities should be enhanced to detect suspicious behavior. It is also advisable to restrict wget usage or replace it with more secure update mechanisms that enforce certificate validation. Finally, organizations should conduct thorough audits of systems for signs of compromise and ensure incident response plans are updated to address potential exploitation scenarios.