CVE-2025-44962 is a path traversal vulnerability identified in RUCKUS SmartZone, a network management platform widely used for managing wireless access points and network infrastructure. The flaw exists in versions prior to 6.1.2p3 Refresh Build and allows an authenticated user with low privileges (PR:L) to perform directory traversal attacks by using '../' sequences in file path inputs. This enables the attacker to read arbitrary files on the underlying system outside the intended directory scope, potentially exposing sensitive configuration files, credentials, or other critical data. The vulnerability does not require user interaction (UI:N) and can be exploited remotely over the network (AV:N). The scope is changed (S:C), meaning the vulnerability affects resources beyond the initially vulnerable component. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.0, reflecting a medium severity level primarily due to the confidentiality impact (C:L) without affecting integrity or availability. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability poses a risk to confidentiality if exploited. The root cause is improper validation or sanitization of file path inputs, allowing traversal sequences to escape the intended directory boundaries. This vulnerability is categorized under CWE-24 (Improper Restriction of File Paths).

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-44962 is unauthorized disclosure of sensitive files on RUCKUS SmartZone devices. This could include configuration files, user credentials, or other sensitive operational data, which may lead to further compromise or espionage. Telecommunications providers, enterprises, and public sector entities relying on RUCKUS SmartZone for network management are at risk. Exposure of sensitive data could undermine confidentiality and trust, potentially leading to regulatory compliance issues under GDPR if personal data is involved. While the vulnerability does not directly affect system integrity or availability, the information gained could facilitate subsequent attacks. The medium severity score reflects the moderate risk, but the real-world impact depends on the sensitivity of the exposed files and the network segmentation protecting the management interfaces. Given the widespread use of RUCKUS products in Europe, especially in critical infrastructure and large enterprises, the threat is significant enough to warrant prompt remediation.

1. Upgrade affected RUCKUS SmartZone devices to version 6.1.2p3 Refresh Build or later, where the vulnerability is patched. 2. Restrict access to SmartZone management interfaces to trusted networks and administrators only, using network segmentation and firewall rules. 3. Implement strong authentication and role-based access controls to limit user privileges, minimizing the risk from low-privilege accounts. 4. Monitor logs and audit access to detect any unusual file access patterns indicative of exploitation attempts. 5. If immediate patching is not possible, consider disabling or restricting features that accept file path inputs or applying web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules to block directory traversal sequences. 6. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration tests focusing on management interfaces to identify similar vulnerabilities. 7. Educate administrators about the risks of path traversal and the importance of timely updates.