CVE-2025-52081 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the Netgear XR300 router, specifically version V1.0.3.38_10.3.30. The vulnerability exists within the HTTPD service, which handles HTTP requests to the device. The flaw is triggered when a specially crafted POST request is sent to the usb_device.cgi endpoint, with malicious input in the usb_folder parameter. Due to improper bounds checking or validation of this parameter, an attacker can overflow the stack buffer, potentially overwriting critical memory regions. This can lead to arbitrary code execution, denial of service, or system instability. The vulnerability does not require authentication, as it is exploitable via HTTP POST requests, which may be sent remotely if the device’s management interface is exposed to untrusted networks. No known public exploits have been reported yet, and no patch or mitigation guidance has been published at the time of disclosure. The absence of a CVSS score indicates the vulnerability is newly disclosed and not yet fully assessed. However, stack-based buffer overflows in network-facing services are typically high-risk due to their potential for remote code execution without user interaction. The affected product, Netgear XR300, is a consumer-grade router often used in home and small office environments, which may be deployed in European households and small businesses. The vulnerability’s exploitation could allow attackers to gain control over the router, intercept or manipulate network traffic, or pivot to internal networks, posing significant security risks.

For European organizations, especially small businesses and home offices using the Netgear XR300 router, this vulnerability poses a significant threat. Successful exploitation could lead to full compromise of the router, enabling attackers to intercept sensitive communications, redirect traffic to malicious sites, or launch further attacks against internal systems. This undermines confidentiality, integrity, and availability of network communications. Given the router’s role as a network gateway, attackers could establish persistent footholds or create backdoors, complicating incident response. The impact is heightened in sectors handling sensitive data such as finance, healthcare, or legal services, where data breaches could result in regulatory penalties under GDPR. Additionally, compromised routers could be leveraged in botnets or DDoS attacks, affecting wider network stability. The lack of patches or mitigations increases the window of exposure, and organizations with exposed management interfaces or weak network segmentation are particularly vulnerable.

Immediate mitigation should focus on reducing exposure of the affected device. Organizations should ensure that the router’s management interface is not accessible from untrusted networks, especially the internet. Network segmentation should be employed to isolate the router’s management traffic from critical systems. Disabling remote management features or restricting access via firewall rules can reduce attack surface. Monitoring network traffic for unusual POST requests to usb_device.cgi may help detect exploitation attempts. Since no official patch is available, organizations should consider replacing affected devices with updated hardware or firmware versions once released. Applying network-level protections such as intrusion prevention systems (IPS) with signatures targeting buffer overflow attempts on HTTP services can provide additional defense. Regularly auditing device firmware versions and maintaining an inventory of network devices will aid in timely vulnerability management. Finally, educating users about the risks of exposing router management interfaces and encouraging strong administrative passwords can help mitigate exploitation risks.