CVE-2025-62405 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the TP-Link Archer AX53 v1.0 router, specifically within its tmpserver modules. This vulnerability arises when the device processes a network packet containing a field whose length exceeds the maximum expected size, leading to a heap overflow. An attacker with authenticated access and adjacency to the network can exploit this flaw by crafting and sending a malicious packet that triggers a segmentation fault, potentially allowing arbitrary code execution on the device. The vulnerability affects firmware versions through 1.3.1 Build 20241120. The CVSS 4.0 vector indicates that the attack requires adjacent network access (AV:A), high attack complexity (AC:H), no user interaction (UI:N), and high privileges (PR:H). The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, as successful exploitation could compromise the router’s operation or allow execution of malicious code, potentially leading to network disruption or further compromise of connected systems. No public exploits are known at this time, but the vulnerability’s nature and severity warrant prompt attention. The tmpserver module is likely responsible for handling temporary server functions or management interfaces, making it a critical component. Given the router’s role as a network gateway, exploitation could have cascading effects on network security and stability.

For European organizations, exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to significant network disruptions, including denial of service through segmentation faults or full compromise of the router via arbitrary code execution. This could result in loss of network availability, interception or manipulation of network traffic, and potential lateral movement within corporate networks. Organizations relying on the Archer AX53 for critical connectivity or security functions may face operational downtime and data confidentiality risks. The requirement for authenticated adjacent access somewhat limits the attack surface to internal or nearby attackers, but insider threats or compromised devices within the network could exploit this. The high privileges required mean that attackers must already have significant access, but once exploited, the router could be fully compromised, undermining perimeter defenses. This is particularly concerning for sectors with sensitive data or critical infrastructure in Europe, where network reliability and data protection are paramount.

1. Monitor TP-Link’s official channels for firmware updates addressing CVE-2025-62405 and apply patches promptly once released. 2. Restrict access to router management interfaces and tmpserver modules to trusted administrators only, ideally via secure management VLANs or VPNs. 3. Implement network segmentation to limit adjacency exposure, ensuring that only authorized devices can communicate with the router’s management interfaces. 4. Employ network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) to monitor for anomalous packets with unusually large fields targeting the tmpserver modules. 5. Enforce strong authentication and access controls on the router to prevent unauthorized or low-privilege users from gaining the high privileges needed to exploit this vulnerability. 6. Conduct regular security audits and penetration tests focusing on network devices to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. 7. Educate network administrators about the risks of adjacent network attacks and the importance of limiting internal network exposure.