CVE-2025-5217 is a buffer overflow vulnerability identified in FreeFloat FTP Server version 1.0.0, specifically within the RMDIR (Remove Directory) command handler. This vulnerability arises due to improper handling of input data when processing the RMDIR command, leading to a buffer overflow condition. Buffer overflow vulnerabilities occur when a program writes more data to a buffer than it can hold, potentially overwriting adjacent memory. This can result in arbitrary code execution, application crashes, or denial of service. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable without requiring authentication or user interaction, as indicated by the CVSS vector (AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N). The CVSS score of 6.9 (medium severity) reflects the potential for partial impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low complexity of attack and no privileges needed. Although the vulnerability is classified as critical in the description, the CVSS score suggests a medium severity level, possibly due to limited impact scope or mitigations. No public exploits are currently known in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability affects only version 1.0.0 of the FreeFloat FTP Server, which is a specialized FTP server product. The lack of authentication requirement and remote exploitability make this a significant risk for exposed FTP servers running this version. Attackers could leverage this buffer overflow to execute arbitrary code on the server, potentially gaining control over the system or disrupting FTP services.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability depends on the deployment of FreeFloat FTP Server 1.0.0 within their infrastructure. Organizations using this FTP server version, especially those exposing it to the internet or untrusted networks, face risks including unauthorized remote code execution, data breaches, service disruption, and potential lateral movement within networks. Confidentiality could be compromised if attackers execute code to access sensitive files or credentials. Integrity and availability may also be affected if the server crashes or is manipulated to deny legitimate access. Given the FTP protocol's common use in file transfers, disruption could impact business operations reliant on file exchange. The medium CVSS score suggests that while the vulnerability is exploitable, the overall impact might be limited by factors such as the specific implementation or environment. However, the absence of authentication requirements increases the threat level for exposed systems. European organizations in sectors with critical infrastructure or sensitive data handling, such as finance, healthcare, and government, should be particularly vigilant. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially since the exploit details are public.

1. Immediate identification and inventory of all FreeFloat FTP Server instances within the organization, focusing on version 1.0.0. 2. Restrict network exposure of FTP servers by implementing firewall rules to limit access to trusted IP addresses and internal networks only. 3. Disable or restrict the use of the RMDIR command if possible, or apply input validation controls at network or application layers to detect and block malformed RMDIR requests. 4. Monitor FTP server logs for unusual or malformed RMDIR commands and signs of exploitation attempts. 5. Implement network intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) with signatures targeting buffer overflow attempts against FTP servers. 6. Engage with FreeFloat vendor or community to obtain patches or updates addressing this vulnerability; if unavailable, consider upgrading to a more secure FTP server solution. 7. Employ application-layer firewalls or FTP proxies that can sanitize or validate FTP commands before reaching the server. 8. Conduct regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing focusing on FTP services to detect this and other vulnerabilities. 9. Educate IT staff on the risks of exposed FTP services and the importance of timely patching and network segmentation.