CVE-2025-8184 is a critical stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the D-Link DIR-513 router series, specifically affecting firmware versions 1.0 through 1.10. The vulnerability resides in the HTTP POST request handler component, within the function formSetWanL2TPcallback located in the /goform/formSetWanL2TPtriggers endpoint. This function improperly handles input data, allowing an attacker to craft a malicious HTTP POST request that overflows the stack buffer. Such a buffer overflow can lead to arbitrary code execution or cause the device to crash, resulting in denial of service. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable without requiring user interaction or authentication, increasing its risk profile. Although the affected products are no longer supported by D-Link, the exploit details have been publicly disclosed, raising the likelihood of exploitation attempts. The CVSS v4.0 base score is 8.7 (high severity), reflecting the vulnerability's network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges or user interaction required, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. No patches are currently available, and no known exploits have been observed in the wild yet. The vulnerability's presence in an HTTP POST handler suggests that attackers can trigger it over the internet or local networks where the device is accessible, potentially compromising the router and any connected network devices.

For European organizations, the exploitation of CVE-2025-8184 could have significant consequences. Many small to medium enterprises (SMEs) and home offices may still be using legacy D-Link DIR-513 routers due to budget constraints or lack of awareness. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to gain control over the router, intercept or manipulate network traffic, launch further attacks within the internal network, or disrupt internet connectivity through denial of service. This can lead to data breaches, loss of sensitive information, operational downtime, and reputational damage. Critical infrastructure or organizations relying on these routers for remote access or VPN connectivity may face elevated risks. Additionally, since the device is no longer supported, organizations cannot rely on vendor patches, increasing exposure. The public disclosure of the exploit details further raises the risk of opportunistic attacks targeting vulnerable devices in Europe, where D-Link has a notable market presence. The vulnerability also poses risks to privacy and compliance with regulations such as GDPR if personal data is compromised due to network breaches stemming from this flaw.

Given the lack of official patches, European organizations should prioritize immediate mitigation steps beyond generic advice. First, identify and inventory all D-Link DIR-513 devices within the network environment. Where possible, replace these legacy routers with modern, supported hardware that receives regular security updates. If replacement is not immediately feasible, restrict access to the router's management interface by implementing network segmentation and firewall rules to block HTTP POST requests to the vulnerable endpoint from untrusted networks, especially the internet. Disable remote management features if enabled. Employ network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) to monitor for suspicious HTTP POST traffic patterns targeting /goform/formSetWanL2TPtriggers. Regularly update network monitoring and threat intelligence feeds to detect emerging exploit attempts. Educate IT staff and users about the risks of using unsupported hardware and encourage timely hardware lifecycle management. Finally, consider deploying compensating controls such as VPN gateways or secure proxies to reduce direct exposure of vulnerable devices to external networks.