Overview
CVE-2025-41744 is a critical vulnerability affecting the Sprecher Automations SPRECON-E series. This vulnerability arises from the use of default cryptographic keys, which allows an unauthenticated remote attacker to access all encrypted communications. This compromises both the confidentiality and integrity of the system. The vulnerability was published on 2025-12-02T11:15:51.760 and has a CVSS score of 9.1, indicating a critical severity level.
Technical Details
The SPRECON-E series relies on encryption to secure its communications. However, the use of default, hardcoded cryptographic keys means that anyone with knowledge of these keys can decrypt and potentially manipulate data transmitted within the system. An attacker can intercept communications, extract sensitive information, or inject malicious commands. The fact that no authentication is required to exploit this vulnerability significantly increases the risk.
CVSS Analysis
The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) assigns a score of 9.1 to CVE-2025-41744. This score reflects the critical severity of the vulnerability, based on the following factors:
- Attack Vector: Network (AV:N) – The vulnerability can be exploited remotely over a network.
- Attack Complexity: Low (AC:L) – Exploitation is straightforward and does not require special conditions.
- Privileges Required: None (PR:N) – No privileges are needed to exploit the vulnerability.
- User Interaction: None (UI:N) – No user interaction is required.
- Scope: Unchanged (S:U) – An exploited vulnerability impacts only the vulnerable component.
- Confidentiality Impact: High (C:H) – There is a total loss of confidentiality, meaning all system data is exposed.
- Integrity Impact: High (I:H) – There is a total loss of integrity, meaning the attacker can modify system data.
- Availability Impact: None (A:N) – No impact to system availability.
Possible Impact
The exploitation of CVE-2025-41744 can have severe consequences, especially in industrial control systems (ICS) and operational technology (OT) environments. The potential impacts include:
- Data Breach: Sensitive data transmitted within the SPRECON-E system can be intercepted and stolen.
- System Manipulation: Attackers can inject malicious commands to disrupt or damage critical infrastructure.
- Denial of Service: While availability impact is rated as none, manipulated commands can indirectly lead to service disruption.
- Reputational Damage: Compromise of the system can result in significant reputational damage for Sprecher Automations and its customers.
Mitigation or Patch Steps
To mitigate the risk associated with CVE-2025-41744, the following steps are recommended:
- Apply the Security Patch: Check the Sprecher Automations website for a security patch or firmware update that addresses this vulnerability. Apply it as soon as possible following their recommended procedure.
- Change Default Keys: If a patch is not immediately available, immediately change all default cryptographic keys to strong, unique keys. Follow Sprecher Automations’ guidelines on how to properly configure these keys.
- Network Segmentation: Implement network segmentation to isolate the SPRECON-E system from other less secure parts of the network.
- Monitor Network Traffic: Continuously monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity that may indicate an attempted exploitation.
- Consult Sprecher Automations: Reach out to Sprecher Automations’ support team for specific guidance on securing your SPRECON-E system.