CVE-2025-45493 is a command injection vulnerability identified in the Netgear EX8000 Wi-Fi range extender, specifically in firmware version 1.0.0.126. The vulnerability resides in the action_bandwidth function, where the iface parameter is improperly sanitized, allowing an attacker to inject and execute arbitrary system commands on the device. This type of vulnerability can lead to full device compromise, enabling attackers to manipulate device settings, intercept or redirect network traffic, or use the device as a foothold for further network intrusion. The vulnerability does not require authentication, meaning that an attacker can exploit it remotely without valid credentials, increasing the attack surface significantly. Although no public exploits or patches are currently available, the vulnerability has been officially published and reserved under CVE-2025-45493. The absence of a CVSS score complicates risk assessment, but the nature of command injection and unauthenticated access indicates a critical security flaw. The Netgear EX8000 is commonly deployed in home and small office environments, but its presence in enterprise or critical infrastructure networks cannot be discounted. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could disrupt network availability, compromise sensitive data, or pivot to other internal systems. The lack of patches necessitates immediate risk mitigation through network segmentation, access restrictions, and vigilant monitoring until a firmware update is released.

For European organizations, exploitation of CVE-2025-45493 could lead to unauthorized remote control of Netgear EX8000 devices, resulting in network disruption, data interception, or lateral movement within corporate networks. The vulnerability threatens confidentiality by potentially exposing sensitive network traffic and device configurations. Integrity is at risk as attackers could alter device settings or inject malicious payloads. Availability could be compromised if attackers disrupt device operations or launch denial-of-service conditions. Small and medium enterprises relying on these devices for network extension may face operational downtime and increased risk of broader network compromise. The lack of authentication requirement lowers the barrier for attackers, increasing the likelihood of exploitation. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged as a stepping stone for attacks on connected systems, amplifying its impact. European organizations with limited cybersecurity resources may find detection and response challenging, emphasizing the need for proactive mitigation.

1. Immediately restrict access to the Netgear EX8000 management interface by limiting it to trusted internal networks and disabling remote management where possible. 2. Implement network segmentation to isolate vulnerable devices from critical infrastructure and sensitive data repositories. 3. Monitor network traffic for unusual commands or patterns indicative of exploitation attempts targeting the iface parameter or the action_bandwidth function. 4. Employ intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) with custom signatures to detect command injection attempts specific to this vulnerability. 5. Regularly audit device configurations and logs to identify unauthorized changes or suspicious activity. 6. Engage with Netgear support channels to obtain information on forthcoming patches or firmware updates addressing this vulnerability. 7. Prepare for rapid deployment of firmware updates once released, including testing in controlled environments to ensure stability. 8. Educate IT staff about the vulnerability specifics to enhance incident response readiness. 9. Consider temporary replacement or removal of vulnerable devices in high-risk environments until patched. 10. Maintain up-to-date asset inventories to quickly identify and remediate affected devices.