CVE-2025-56498 is an OS command injection vulnerability identified in the PLDT WiFi Router model Prolink PGN6401V running Firmware version 8.1.2. The vulnerability resides in the router's web management interface, specifically on the ping6.asp page. This page accepts user input through the 'pingAddr' parameter, which is forwarded to the /boaform/formPing6 endpoint. Due to improper input sanitization, an authenticated attacker can inject arbitrary system commands into this parameter. These commands are executed by the underlying operating system with root-level privileges. The router uses the Boa web server version 0.93.15 to handle HTTP requests, which processes the vulnerable endpoint. Exploitation of this flaw enables an attacker to gain full control over the router, potentially allowing them to manipulate network traffic, intercept communications, or pivot into the internal network. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the severity of the vulnerability is high given the root-level command execution capability and the critical role of routers in network infrastructure. The lack of a CVSS score indicates this is a newly published vulnerability as of September 3, 2025, with limited public analysis or mitigation guidance available at this time.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to network security and operational continuity. Routers like the Prolink PGN6401V are often deployed in small to medium enterprises and residential environments, including home offices, which have become increasingly important due to remote work trends. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized network access, interception of sensitive data, disruption of internet connectivity, and potential lateral movement to other internal systems. Given the root-level access gained, attackers could install persistent backdoors or manipulate routing configurations, severely compromising confidentiality, integrity, and availability of organizational networks. The impact is particularly critical for sectors relying on secure communications, such as finance, healthcare, and government entities. Additionally, compromised routers could be leveraged as part of botnets or used to launch further attacks against European infrastructure, amplifying the threat landscape.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should first identify if they are using the affected Prolink PGN6401V router with Firmware 8.1.2. Immediate steps include restricting access to the router's web management interface to trusted administrators only, preferably via a secure management VLAN or VPN. Strong authentication mechanisms should be enforced to prevent unauthorized access. Network segmentation can limit the exposure of the router management interface. Monitoring network traffic for unusual patterns or command injection attempts targeting the ping6.asp endpoint is recommended. Since no official patch or firmware update is currently available, organizations should contact the vendor for firmware updates or advisories. As a temporary workaround, disabling the vulnerable ping6.asp functionality or restricting HTTP methods on the router's management interface may reduce risk. Regularly auditing router configurations and applying security best practices for IoT and network devices will further reduce the attack surface.