Overview
A critical security vulnerability, dubbed CVE-2025-6751, has been detected in the Linksys E8450 up to version 1.2.00.360516. This vulnerability has garnered significant attention due to the dire potential consequences it can bring about, including system compromises and data leakage. The vulnerability resides in the HTTP POST Request Handler’s functionality, specifically the `set_device_language` function of the `portal.cgi` file. The malfunction occurs when the argument `dut_language` is manipulated, leading to a buffer overflow. Buffer overflow vulnerabilities are especially hazardous since they can allow an attacker to run arbitrary code on a victim’s system.
Vulnerability Summary
CVE ID: CVE-2025-6751
Severity: Critical, with a CVSS score of 8.8
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: None
Impact: Potential system compromise or data leakage
Affected Products
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Product | Affected Versions
Linksys E8450 | Up to 1.2.00.360516
How the Exploit Works
The vulnerability arises from a buffer overflow condition in the `set_device_language` function of the `portal.cgi` file. In this case, when the `dut_language` argument is manipulated through a specially crafted HTTP POST request, it causes an overflow of the buffer. This overflow can potentially allow the attacker to overwrite important control data structures and execute arbitrary code, leading to a complete system compromise or data leakage.
Conceptual Example Code
Here’s a conceptual illustration of how the vulnerability might be exploited:
POST /portal.cgi HTTP/1.1
Host: target.example.com
Content-Type: application/x-www-form-urlencoded
dut_language=<malicious_payload>In the above example, `
Mitigation
The most effective way to mitigate this vulnerability is by applying the vendor patch once it is available. However, in the absence of a vendor patch, using a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or Intrusion Detection System (IDS) can serve as temporary mitigation. These systems can be configured to detect and block suspicious HTTP POST requests that aim to exploit this specific vulnerability. As always, it is also recommended to follow best practices for system and network security, including regular monitoring and updating of systems.