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CVE-2025-48413: Exploitation of Hard-coded Password Hashes in Operating System Update Files

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Overview

The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-48413 exposes critical system files `/etc/passwd` and `/etc/shadow` that contain hard-coded password hashes for the root user of the operating system. Any system running the affected software update is at risk, potentially leading to unauthorized access, system compromise, and data leakage. This vulnerability is of high concern due to its direct impact on the system’s integrity and confidentiality.

Vulnerability Summary

CVE ID: CVE-2025-48413
Severity: High (Score: 7.7)
Attack Vector: Network and Physical Access
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: None
Impact: System compromise and data leakage

Affected Products

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Product | Affected Versions

Operating System | OS Version with the affected update

How the Exploit Works

The exploit takes advantage of the hard-coded password hashes that are included in the operating system update files. An attacker can extract these password hashes from the `/etc/passwd` and `/etc/shadow` files and use them to gain unauthorized access to the device. The vulnerability can be exploited remotely via an SSH backdoor, or physically via UART shell access if the attacker has physical contact with the device.

Conceptual Example Code

The following is a simplified representation of how an attacker might exploit this vulnerability:

# Extract the password hashes
cat /etc/passwd | grep root
cat /etc/shadow | grep root
# Use the extracted hashes to log in as root
ssh root@target-device-ip

Mitigation and Recommendations

To mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability, it is advised to apply the vendor’s patch once available. In the interim, a web application firewall (WAF) or intrusion detection system (IDS) should be used to detect and block any attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Furthermore, end users should be on the lookout for any suspicious activity on their devices and report it promptly to their IT department or software vendor.

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Disclaimer:

The information and code presented in this article are provided for educational and defensive cybersecurity purposes only. Any conceptual or pseudocode examples are simplified representations intended to raise awareness and promote secure development and system configuration practices.

Do not use this information to attempt unauthorized access or exploit vulnerabilities on systems that you do not own or have explicit permission to test.

Ameeba and its authors do not endorse or condone malicious behavior and are not responsible for misuse of the content. Always follow ethical hacking guidelines, responsible disclosure practices, and local laws.

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