CVE-2025-44962 is a medium-severity path traversal vulnerability (CWE-24) affecting RUCKUS SmartZone (SZ) devices prior to version 6.1.2p3 Refresh Build. This vulnerability allows an attacker with at least low-level privileges (PR:L) and network access (AV:N) to perform directory traversal attacks by using '../' sequences in file paths. Exploiting this flaw enables the attacker to read arbitrary files on the affected system outside the intended directory scope. The vulnerability does not require user interaction (UI:N) and has a scope change (S:C), meaning the impact extends beyond the initially vulnerable component. The confidentiality impact is limited (C:L), with no impact on integrity (I:N) or availability (A:N). No known public exploits have been reported yet. The vulnerability arises due to insufficient validation or sanitization of file path inputs, allowing traversal to parent directories and unauthorized file access. RUCKUS SmartZone is a network management platform widely used for managing wireless LAN infrastructure, including access points and switches, primarily in enterprise and service provider environments. This vulnerability could allow an attacker to access sensitive configuration files or credentials stored on the device, potentially facilitating further attacks or information disclosure.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to enterprises and service providers using RUCKUS SmartZone for network management. Unauthorized file access could lead to exposure of sensitive network configuration data, user credentials, or other confidential information, undermining network security and privacy. While the vulnerability does not directly allow code execution or denial of service, the information gained could be leveraged for lateral movement or privilege escalation within the network. This is particularly concerning for critical infrastructure providers, telecommunications companies, and large enterprises with extensive wireless deployments. The medium severity rating reflects the limited confidentiality impact and the requirement for some level of privileges, but the potential for cascading effects in complex network environments elevates the risk. Additionally, the lack of user interaction and network-based attack vector increase the likelihood of exploitation in targeted attacks.

Organizations should prioritize upgrading RUCKUS SmartZone to version 6.1.2p3 Refresh Build or later, where this vulnerability is addressed. In the absence of immediate patching, network administrators should restrict access to the SmartZone management interfaces to trusted networks and users only, employing network segmentation and firewall rules to limit exposure. Implement strict access controls and monitor logs for unusual file access patterns or directory traversal attempts. Employ intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) with signatures or heuristics capable of detecting path traversal attacks. Regularly audit device configurations and sensitive files to detect unauthorized access. Additionally, enforce the principle of least privilege for accounts accessing SmartZone, and consider multi-factor authentication to reduce the risk of credential compromise. Finally, maintain up-to-date backups of device configurations to enable recovery in case of compromise.