TOTOLINK AX1800 Router Unauthenticated Telnet Root RCE Vulnerability
Vulnerability Disclosure · 2 sources · Updated 4mo ago · First seen Dec 11, 2025

A critical vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2025-13184, has been discovered in the TOTOLINK AX1800 wireless router, allowing remote attackers to bypass authentication and enable the Telnet service via a crafted HTTP request to the /cgi-bin/cstecgi.cgi?action=telnet endpoint. This flaw permits unauthenticated users to gain root-level access to the device, enabling arbitrary command execution and full administrative control without requiring a password. The vulnerability affects at least the X5000R V9.1.0u.6369_B20230113 firmware and potentially earlier versions with similar implementations, and there is currently no official patch available.
With root access, attackers can modify DNS settings, intercept network traffic, and use the compromised router as a foothold for further attacks within the local network. The CERT Coordination Center has issued an advisory warning of the severe implications, including the risk of lateral movement and persistent compromise if the router's management interface is exposed to the internet. The vulnerability is rated as critical (CVSS 9.8), and users are urged to restrict remote access and monitor for suspicious activity until a fix is released.


