CVE-2025-48768 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-763 (Release of Invalid Pointer or Reference) found in the Apache NuttX RTOS, specifically in the fs/inode/fs_inoderemove function responsible for removing root filesystem inodes. The flaw allows the system to release an invalid pointer or reference, which can trigger a debug assert (disabled by default), cause a NULL pointer dereference, or generally result in a denial of service (DoS) condition. The behavior of the NULL pointer dereference varies depending on the target architecture, but in all cases leads to service disruption. This vulnerability affects Apache NuttX RTOS versions starting from 10.0.0 up to but not including 12.10.0. The attack vector is network-based, targeting filesystem services that allow write access and are exposed externally, such as FTP servers running on devices using NuttX. No privileges or user interaction are required to exploit this vulnerability, making it more accessible to remote attackers. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.3, reflecting a medium severity level with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, and no user interaction needed. The impact is limited to availability (denial of service), with no direct confidentiality or integrity compromise. No known exploits have been reported in the wild yet. The Apache Software Foundation has addressed this issue in version 12.10.0 of NuttX RTOS, and users are advised to upgrade to this version to mitigate the risk.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-48768 is the potential for denial of service on devices running Apache NuttX RTOS with network-exposed filesystem write services. This can disrupt critical embedded systems or IoT devices used in industrial control, telecommunications, or infrastructure monitoring. The denial of service could lead to operational downtime, loss of availability of essential services, and potential cascading effects in environments relying on continuous device operation. Since the vulnerability does not affect confidentiality or integrity, data breaches or unauthorized data modifications are unlikely. However, the disruption of service could impact sectors such as manufacturing, energy, transportation, and healthcare, where embedded systems are prevalent. The ease of remote exploitation without authentication increases the risk profile, especially for devices exposed to untrusted networks. Organizations relying on NuttX-based devices should assess their exposure and prioritize patching to maintain operational continuity.

To mitigate CVE-2025-48768, European organizations should: 1) Identify all devices and embedded systems running Apache NuttX RTOS versions between 10.0.0 and 12.10.0, especially those exposing filesystem write services over the network (e.g., FTP). 2) Upgrade affected devices to Apache NuttX RTOS version 12.10.0 or later, where the vulnerability is fixed. 3) If immediate upgrade is not feasible, restrict network access to vulnerable services using network segmentation, firewalls, or access control lists to limit exposure to trusted networks only. 4) Disable or restrict write access to filesystem services exposed externally unless absolutely necessary. 5) Monitor network traffic and device logs for unusual activity or signs of attempted exploitation, such as unexpected crashes or service interruptions. 6) Implement intrusion detection systems tailored to detect anomalous behavior on embedded devices. 7) Coordinate with device vendors or integrators to ensure timely patch deployment and security updates. 8) Review and harden device configurations to minimize attack surface, including disabling unused services and enforcing strong authentication where possible.