CVE-2025-37165 Overview
A vulnerability in the router mode configuration of HPE Instant On Access Points exposes certain network configuration details to unintended interfaces. This information disclosure vulnerability allows a malicious actor to gain knowledge of internal network configuration details through inspecting impacted packets, potentially enabling further network reconnaissance and attacks.
Critical Impact
Sensitive network configuration information may be exposed to unauthorized parties through improperly handled network packets, enabling attackers to map internal network topology and plan targeted attacks.
Affected Products
- HPE Instant On Access Points (Router Mode)
Discovery Timeline
- 2026-01-13 - CVE CVE-2025-37165 published to NVD
- 2026-01-13 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2025-37165
Vulnerability Analysis
This vulnerability represents an information disclosure issue within the router mode functionality of HPE Instant On Access Points. When the access point operates in router mode, network configuration details are inadvertently exposed through network packets transmitted to unintended interfaces. This exposure allows attackers with network access to passively collect sensitive configuration information by analyzing network traffic.
The vulnerability enables unauthorized reconnaissance of internal network architecture, which could serve as a precursor to more sophisticated attacks. Network configuration details typically include subnet information, routing tables, interface configurations, and potentially other sensitive network topology data that should remain internal to the organization.
Root Cause
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in improper handling of network configuration data within the router mode implementation. When operating in router mode, the HPE Instant On Access Points fail to properly restrict which network interfaces receive packets containing configuration information. This results in internal network details being leaked through interfaces that should not have visibility into such data.
Attack Vector
The vulnerability is exploitable over the network without requiring authentication or user interaction. An attacker positioned on the network can passively capture and inspect packets transmitted by the affected access point to discover internal network configuration details. This information can then be leveraged to:
- Map the internal network topology
- Identify potential attack targets
- Discover subnet boundaries and routing configurations
- Plan targeted lateral movement attacks
The passive nature of this attack makes it particularly difficult to detect, as the attacker does not need to generate suspicious traffic to exploit the vulnerability.
Detection Methods for CVE-2025-37165
Indicators of Compromise
- Unusual packet capture activity originating from network segments where traffic inspection is not authorized
- Network reconnaissance tools or packet analyzers detected on unexpected network segments
- Evidence of configuration data extraction from network traffic logs
Detection Strategies
- Monitor for unauthorized traffic analysis tools on network segments adjacent to HPE Instant On Access Points
- Implement network segmentation to limit exposure of access point traffic to untrusted network segments
- Deploy network intrusion detection systems to identify potential reconnaissance activities
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enable logging on HPE Instant On Access Points and review for configuration exposure indicators
- Monitor network traffic patterns for anomalous packet inspection or capture activities
- Review firewall logs for unexpected outbound connections from network segments containing affected devices
How to Mitigate CVE-2025-37165
Immediate Actions Required
- Review the HPE Support Document for specific patch and firmware update information
- Identify all HPE Instant On Access Points operating in router mode within your environment
- Implement network segmentation to isolate affected devices from untrusted network segments
- Consider temporarily switching affected devices to bridge mode if router mode is not essential
Patch Information
HPE has released guidance for this vulnerability. Administrators should consult the HPE Support Document for detailed patch information and firmware updates. Apply all available security updates as soon as possible after testing in a non-production environment.
Workarounds
- Implement strict network segmentation to limit which network segments can observe access point traffic
- Consider using bridge mode instead of router mode where operationally feasible
- Deploy additional network monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts
- Restrict physical and network access to segments containing affected access points
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
