NetExtender: Improper Link Resolution Before File Access
CVE-2025-23010 is a high-severity improper link resolution before file access vulnerability in NetExtender from SonicWall, with a CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.2 out of 10. It can be exploited with physical access to the device by an attacker with a low-privileged account, but only if a user takes part, for example by opening a link or file. Affected NetExtender versions: 10.3.1 and earlier versions. The record does not name a fixed version, so check the vendor advisory. There is no confirmed exploitation so far. EPSS estimates a 0.42% chance of exploitation within 30 days, which is low compared with other CVEs.
High severity with no evidence of exploitation so far.
What to do
- Check which version of NetExtender you run against the affected versions below, and install the vendor's latest release.
- Read the advisory on psirt.global.sonicwall.com for workarounds and exact fixed builds.
- Because the attack needs a user to take part, warn users about unexpected links and files related to this product until it is patched.
Affected products and versions
| Vendor | Product | Affected versions | Fixed in |
|---|---|---|---|
| SonicWall | NetExtender | 10.3.1 and earlier versions | Not stated |
Version data comes from the organisation that assigned the CVE. Confirm against the vendor advisory before deciding you are unaffected.
How the severity score breaks down
- Attack vector
- PhysicalThe attacker must physically touch the device.
- Attack complexity
- LowNo special conditions are needed; the attack works reliably.
- Privileges required
- LowA basic user account is enough.
- User interaction
- RequiredA user must take an action such as opening a file or link.
- Scope
- ChangedThe attack can reach beyond the vulnerable component into other systems.
- Confidentiality
- HighAll data handled by the component can be read.
- Integrity
- HighData or code can be modified at will.
- Availability
- HighThe component can be taken down completely.
Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:P/AC:L/PR:L/UI:R/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:H. Scored by CISA (ADP).
Official description
An Improper Link Resolution Before File Access ('Link Following') vulnerability in SonicWall NetExtender Windows (32 and 64 bit) client which allows an attacker to manipulate file paths.
Source: the CVE record as published by its numbering authority, via NVD and CVE.org.
The underlying weakness: Improper Link Resolution Before File Access
The product attempts to access a file based on the filename, but it does not properly prevent that filename from identifying a link or shortcut that resolves to an unintended resource.
How developers prevent this class of flaw
- Follow the principle of least privilege when assigning access rights to entities in a software system. Denying access to a file can prevent an attacker from replacing that file with a link to a sensitive file. Ensure good compartmentalization in the system to provide protected areas that can be trusted.
More Improper Link Resolution Before File Access vulnerabilities (CWE-59)
Timeline
- CVE record published.
- CISA published its SSVC assessment (exploitation: none, automatable: no, technical impact: total).
- Record last changed materially (score, affected products, status or references).
References
Other vulnerabilities in NetExtender
- 7.0 High severity
- 7.2 High severity
- 7.2 High severity
- 8.8 High severity
- 7.3 High severity
- 7.8 High severity
Recent Improper Link Resolution Before File Access vulnerabilities
- 9.8 Critical severity
- 7.8 High severity
- 8.8 High severity
- 7.1 High severity
- 8.8 High severity
- 7.8 High severity
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