CVE-2025-32819 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting SonicWall SMA100 devices running firmware version 10.2.1.14-75sv and earlier. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-552, which involves files or directories being accessible to external parties. Specifically, this flaw allows a remote attacker who has authenticated SSLVPN user privileges to bypass path traversal protections. By exploiting this, the attacker can delete arbitrary files on the device's filesystem. The deletion of critical files can lead to severe consequences, including the device rebooting to factory default settings. This effectively results in a loss of all configurations, potentially disrupting network security and connectivity. The CVSS v3.1 score is 8.8, indicating a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attack vector is network-based (AV:N), requires low attack complexity (AC:L), and privileges (PR:L) but no user interaction (UI:N). The scope remains unchanged (S:U). Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the potential for complete device reset and loss of security controls. The lack of available patches at the time of publication further elevates the urgency for mitigation.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be substantial. SonicWall SMA100 devices are commonly used for secure remote access via SSLVPN, especially in enterprises and government agencies. Exploitation could allow an authenticated attacker—potentially a malicious insider or a compromised user account—to disrupt remote access infrastructure by deleting critical files and forcing the device to reset to factory defaults. This would cause immediate loss of VPN configurations, user access policies, and security settings, leading to downtime and increased exposure to external threats. In sectors such as finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, this could interrupt business continuity and compromise sensitive data confidentiality and integrity. Additionally, the forced reset could open a window for further attacks during recovery or reconfiguration. Given the reliance on remote work and VPNs in Europe, especially post-pandemic, the operational and reputational risks are significant.

Organizations should take immediate steps to mitigate this vulnerability beyond generic patching advice. First, restrict SSLVPN user privileges strictly to necessary personnel and enforce strong authentication mechanisms, such as multi-factor authentication, to reduce the risk of compromised credentials. Monitor VPN user activities for unusual file access or deletion attempts. Implement network segmentation to isolate SMA100 devices from less trusted network zones, limiting the blast radius of a potential exploit. Regularly back up device configurations and maintain tested recovery procedures to quickly restore settings if a reset occurs. Employ intrusion detection systems (IDS) or endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to detect anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. Until a vendor patch is available, consider deploying compensating controls such as additional access controls or temporary removal of vulnerable services if feasible. Engage with SonicWall support for updates and apply patches promptly once released.