CVE-2025-9589 is a vulnerability identified in the Cudy WR1200EA router, specifically in version 2.3.7-20250113-121810. The issue involves the use of a default password due to manipulation of an unknown function related to the /etc/shadow file, which stores hashed user credentials on Unix-like systems. This vulnerability requires local access to the device to exploit, indicating that an attacker must already have some level of access to the internal network or physical access to the device. The attack complexity is high, and exploitation is difficult, which reduces the likelihood of widespread exploitation. The vulnerability does not require user interaction and does not allow privilege escalation beyond low privileges, but it does compromise confidentiality to a limited extent by allowing unauthorized access through default credentials. The vendor, Cudy, was contacted but did not respond or provide a patch, and no known exploits are currently active in the wild. The CVSS v4.0 score is low (2.0), reflecting the limited impact and difficulty of exploitation. The vulnerability could allow an attacker with local access to gain unauthorized entry to the router, potentially leading to further network reconnaissance or lateral movement within a compromised environment. However, the lack of remote exploitability and the high complexity reduce the immediate risk.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability is generally limited due to the requirement for local access and the high complexity of exploitation. However, in environments where Cudy WR1200EA routers are deployed—particularly in small offices or home office (SOHO) settings—this vulnerability could be leveraged by insiders or attackers who have gained initial footholds within the network. Unauthorized access to the router could allow attackers to intercept or manipulate network traffic, degrade network availability, or pivot to other internal systems. Given the low CVSS score and absence of known exploits, the immediate threat level is low, but the lack of vendor response and patch availability means the vulnerability remains a latent risk. Organizations relying on these devices should be aware that if an attacker gains local access, the default password issue could facilitate further compromise. This is particularly relevant for European organizations with remote or distributed workforces using such routers in less controlled environments.

1. Replace or upgrade affected Cudy WR1200EA devices to models or firmware versions that do not have this vulnerability once available. 2. Restrict physical and local network access to the routers to trusted personnel only, minimizing the risk of local exploitation. 3. Change default passwords immediately upon deployment and verify that no default credentials remain active. 4. Implement network segmentation to isolate vulnerable devices from critical infrastructure and sensitive data. 5. Monitor network traffic for unusual activity that could indicate unauthorized access attempts to the router. 6. If possible, disable remote management features on the router to reduce attack surface. 7. Maintain an inventory of all network devices to quickly identify and remediate vulnerable hardware. 8. Engage with the vendor or community forums for updates or unofficial patches, given the vendor’s lack of response. 9. Educate users and administrators about the risks of default credentials and the importance of secure configurations.