CVE-2025-61044 is a command injection vulnerability identified in the TOTOLINK X18 router firmware version V9.1.0cu.2053_B20230309. The vulnerability arises from improper input validation in the setEasyMeshAgentCfg function, specifically through the agentName parameter. This flaw allows an unauthenticated attacker to inject arbitrary OS commands remotely over the network without requiring user interaction or privileges. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-77 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command), which typically leads to remote code execution or command execution on the affected device. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.5, reflecting a medium severity level with the attack vector being network-based (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), and impacts on confidentiality and integrity but not availability (C:L/I:L/A:N). Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the nature of the vulnerability makes it a significant risk for devices exposed to untrusted networks. Exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data leakage, or manipulation of router configurations. The lack of available patches at the time of publication increases the urgency for defensive measures. This vulnerability specifically affects the TOTOLINK X18 model, a consumer and small business router, which may be deployed in various European environments including homes, small offices, and possibly some enterprise edge networks.

For European organizations, exploitation of CVE-2025-61044 could lead to unauthorized command execution on affected TOTOLINK X18 routers, compromising the confidentiality and integrity of network traffic and device configurations. Attackers could leverage this to intercept sensitive data, alter network settings, or pivot into internal networks, increasing the risk of broader compromise. Small and medium enterprises using these routers as primary gateways are particularly vulnerable, as compromised devices could disrupt business operations or expose internal resources. Critical infrastructure sectors relying on these routers for connectivity might face increased risk of espionage or sabotage. The medium severity score reflects that while availability is not directly impacted, the breach of confidentiality and integrity can have serious operational and reputational consequences. The absence of known exploits currently provides a limited window for mitigation before potential weaponization. European organizations with remote management interfaces exposed to the internet are at heightened risk, especially if default or weak credentials are used.

1. Immediately restrict access to the router’s management interfaces by implementing network segmentation and firewall rules to limit exposure to trusted networks only. 2. Disable remote management features if not required, or enforce strong authentication and encrypted channels (e.g., HTTPS, VPN) for remote access. 3. Monitor network traffic and router logs for unusual commands or configuration changes indicative of exploitation attempts. 4. Apply firmware updates from TOTOLINK as soon as patches addressing CVE-2025-61044 become available. 5. For environments where patching is delayed, consider replacing affected devices with models from vendors with timely security support. 6. Educate users and administrators on the risks of command injection vulnerabilities and the importance of secure configuration. 7. Employ network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) tuned to detect command injection patterns targeting the agentName parameter or EasyMesh configuration endpoints. 8. Regularly audit router configurations and credentials to ensure they follow security best practices and are not default or weak.