CVE-2025-8647 in DMX958XR
Summary
by MITRE • 08/06/2025
Kenwood DMX958XR Firmware Update Command Injection Vulnerability. This vulnerability allows physically present attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of Kenwood DMX958XR devices. Authentication is not required to exploit this vulnerability.
The specific flaw exists within the firmware update process. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of a user-supplied string before using it to execute a system call. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of root. Was ZDI-CAN-26270.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/06/2025
The CVE-2025-8647 vulnerability represents a critical command injection flaw in the Kenwood DMX958XR device firmware update mechanism, classified under CWE-77 as improper neutralization of special elements used in a command. This vulnerability exists within the device's update process where insufficient input validation allows malicious commands to be executed directly through system calls. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it requires no authentication for exploitation, making it accessible to any attacker with physical access to the device. The vulnerability stems from the firmware update handler's failure to sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into system commands, creating a direct path for arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it allows attackers to execute code with root privileges, effectively granting complete control over the device's operating system. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1548.001 for abuse of root privileges. The physical presence requirement for exploitation does not diminish the risk significantly since many industrial and commercial environments may not adequately secure physical access to critical devices. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, modify device configurations, or establish persistent access points within network infrastructure.
Security implications of CVE-2025-8647 are substantial given that the affected Kenwood DMX958XR devices likely operate in environments where physical security is not always stringent. The vulnerability creates an attack surface that can be exploited by adversaries with minimal technical requirements once physical access is obtained. This weakness in the firmware update process represents a fundamental failure in input validation that allows attackers to inject malicious commands directly into the system's command execution pipeline. The lack of authentication requirements makes this vulnerability particularly concerning for industrial control systems and commercial audiovisual equipment where such devices may be deployed in sensitive locations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate firmware updates from Kenwood, as well as implementing physical security measures to prevent unauthorized access to affected devices. Network segmentation and monitoring of update processes can help detect suspicious activities, while regular security assessments of physical access controls should be conducted. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in embedded systems and firmware components, aligning with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-171 for protecting controlled unclassified information in nonfederal systems and organizations. Organizations should also consider implementing device integrity monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized modifications to firmware update processes.