CVE-2025-4147: Critical Remote Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in Netgear EX6200 1.0.3.94

Overview

A critical vulnerability has been identified in Netgear EX6200 version 1.0.3.94, rated with a severity score of 8.8. This vulnerability, classified as a buffer overflow, has the potential to compromise systems or lead to data leakage. The exploit can be launched remotely, increasing its risk and potential impact. This vulnerability is a significant concern for all users of the affected Netgear product, as it could potentially allow malicious actors to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information, or even take control of the vulnerable systems.

Vulnerability Summary

CVE ID: CVE-2025-4147
Severity: Critical – CVSS 8.8
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: None
Impact: Potential system compromise and data leakage

Affected Products

Product | Affected Versions

Netgear EX6200 | 1.0.3.94

How the Exploit Works

The CVE-2025-4147 vulnerability exists in the sub_47F7C function of Netgear EX6200 version 1.0.3.94. When the ‘host’ argument of this function is manipulated, it leads to a buffer overflow. This overflow can corrupt nearby space in memory and cause the application to crash or, potentially, allow an attacker to take control of the system. This vulnerability can be exploited remotely, and no user interaction is required, making it particularly dangerous.

Conceptual Example Code

In this conceptual example, an HTTP request is crafted to exploit the vulnerability:

POST /sub_47F7C/function HTTP/1.1
Host: vulnerable.netgear.com
Content-Type: application/json
{ "host": "A".repeat(10000) } // overflow the buffer

In the above example, the “host” argument is filled with a string of a length that exceeds the buffer limit, causing a buffer overflow.

Recommendations for Mitigation

The best course of action to mitigate this vulnerability is to apply the vendor-provided patch, when available. However, given the vendor’s lack of response to initial disclosure, it is advisable to use other means of mitigation. Implementing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) can provide temporary protection by detecting and blocking exploit attempts. Ensure these systems are properly configured to recognize and stop attacks that may exploit this vulnerability.
Regular penetration testing and vulnerability scanning are also crucial in identifying and rectifying such vulnerabilities promptly. Remember, cybersecurity is not a one-time event but rather a continuous process.