CVE-2025-45343 is a critical remote code execution vulnerability affecting the Tenda W18E router, specifically version 2.0 with firmware version 16.01.0.11. The vulnerability exists in the account module's editing functionality accessible via the goform/setmodules route. An attacker can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary code on the device without requiring any authentication or user interaction. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-284, indicating an authorization bypass or improper access control issue. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.8 reflects the high severity, with the attack vector being network-based (AV:N), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction needed (UI:N), and full impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). This means an attacker can remotely compromise the router, potentially gaining full control over the device, intercepting or manipulating network traffic, or disrupting network availability. No patches or vendor advisories are currently available, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild yet. However, the critical nature and ease of exploitation make this a significant threat to any network using the affected Tenda W18E router firmware version. Given the router's role as a network gateway, successful exploitation could lead to widespread network compromise, data leakage, or denial of service.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk, especially for small and medium enterprises or home office environments that commonly use consumer-grade routers like the Tenda W18E. Compromise of these routers can lead to interception of sensitive communications, unauthorized access to internal networks, and potential lateral movement to other connected systems. Critical infrastructure or organizations with remote sites using these routers could face operational disruptions or data breaches. The lack of authentication and user interaction requirements means attackers can scan and exploit vulnerable devices remotely, increasing the threat surface. Additionally, the potential for full device compromise could allow attackers to deploy persistent malware, manipulate DNS settings for phishing or malware distribution, or create botnets for further attacks. The impact extends beyond confidentiality to integrity and availability, threatening business continuity and regulatory compliance under frameworks such as GDPR.

Immediate mitigation steps include isolating affected Tenda W18E routers from critical network segments and restricting their management interfaces to trusted internal networks only. Network administrators should monitor network traffic for unusual activity originating from or targeting these devices. Employing network segmentation and strict firewall rules can limit exposure. Since no official patch is currently available, organizations should consider replacing vulnerable devices with models from vendors with robust security update policies. If replacement is not immediately feasible, disabling remote management features and changing default credentials can reduce risk. Regularly auditing network devices for firmware versions and known vulnerabilities is essential. Additionally, deploying intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) that can detect exploitation attempts targeting the goform/setmodules route may provide early warning. Organizations should stay alert for vendor advisories or patches and apply them promptly once released.