CVE-2025-44882 is a critical command injection vulnerability identified in the /cgi-bin/firewall.cgi component of the Wavlink WL-WN579A3 router firmware version 1.0. This vulnerability allows an unauthenticated attacker to execute arbitrary system commands remotely by sending specially crafted input to the vulnerable CGI endpoint. The flaw stems from improper input validation and sanitization in the firewall.cgi script, which processes user-supplied data without adequate filtering, leading to command injection (CWE-78). Exploitation requires no authentication or user interaction, and the attack vector is network-based, making it highly accessible to remote attackers. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.8 reflects the critical nature of this vulnerability, with high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, enabling attackers to control the device, intercept or manipulate network traffic, pivot into internal networks, or launch further attacks. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the severity and ease of exploitation make this a significant threat to organizations using this device. The lack of available patches or vendor advisories increases the risk profile. Given that Wavlink devices are commonly used in small office and home office (SOHO) environments, the vulnerability could also be leveraged as an entry point into corporate networks if these devices are deployed at network perimeters or remote sites.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk, especially for those relying on Wavlink WL-WN579A3 routers in their network infrastructure. Compromise of these devices could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive internal resources, data exfiltration, disruption of network services, and potential lateral movement within corporate networks. The criticality of the vulnerability means attackers could fully control affected devices, undermining network security and privacy. This is particularly concerning for sectors with stringent data protection requirements under GDPR, such as finance, healthcare, and government agencies. Additionally, compromised routers could be used as part of botnets or for launching distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, impacting broader internet stability. The absence of patches or mitigations from the vendor increases the urgency for organizations to implement compensating controls. Remote and hybrid work environments that depend on SOHO routers for connectivity may be especially vulnerable, as attackers can exploit this flaw without needing physical access or user interaction.

Given the lack of an official patch, European organizations should take immediate and specific steps to mitigate the risk: 1) Identify and inventory all Wavlink WL-WN579A3 devices within the network, including those used by remote employees. 2) Restrict access to the router management interface by implementing network segmentation and firewall rules that limit access to trusted IP addresses only. 3) Disable remote management features or the vulnerable CGI endpoint (/cgi-bin/firewall.cgi) if possible, to reduce the attack surface. 4) Monitor network traffic for unusual or suspicious requests targeting the firewall.cgi endpoint, using intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) with custom signatures. 5) Consider replacing vulnerable devices with alternative routers from vendors with active security support and patching policies. 6) Educate IT staff and users about the risks associated with unmanaged or outdated network devices. 7) Implement network anomaly detection to identify potential exploitation attempts. 8) Regularly review and update network device firmware and configurations to minimize exposure to known vulnerabilities.