Overview
CVE-2025-0282 is a critical stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability. It impacts Ivanti Connect Secure, Ivanti Policy Secure, and Ivanti Neurons for Zero Trust Access (ZTA) gateways. This vulnerability allows remote, unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected devices. Due to its severe nature, it has been given a CVSS score of 9.0.
Technical Details
A stack-based buffer overflow occurs when more data is written to a buffer on the stack than it can hold. This excess data can overwrite adjacent memory, including control information like the return address of a function. By doing so, an attacker can redirect the program’s execution flow to malicious code they control.
Key aspects of CVE-2025-0282 include:
- Attack Vector: Network – Exploitable remotely over a network.
- Attack Complexity: High – Requires specific conditions to be met.
- Privileges Required: None – No special privileges needed by the attacker.
- User Interaction: None – Can be exploited without user intervention.
- Scope: Changed – Can affect resources beyond the initial vulnerable component.
- Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability: High impact on all three, meaning attackers can access, modify, and disrupt affected systems.
Impact
Successful exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to:
- Unauthorized access to sensitive data.
- Execution of malicious code on the system.
- Potentially full control over the affected devices.
- Significant disruption of services.
Real-World Exploitation
Ivanti has confirmed that CVE-2025-0282 has been actively exploited in the wild. Affected systems have been targeted, compromising a limited number of customers. This real-world exploitation emphasizes the need for immediate action to secure vulnerable devices.
CISA KEV Catalog Update
The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) maintains the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) Catalog, which lists vulnerabilities that have been actively exploited in the wild. CVE-2025-0282 has been added to this catalog, highlighting its critical nature and the need for immediate action.
Mitigation and Patching
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2025-0282, Ivanti has released patches. The recommended steps include:
- Applying Patches: Ensure all affected devices are updated with the latest patches from Ivanti.
- Factory Reset for Connect Secure: For Ivanti Connect Secure devices, performing a factory reset before upgrading to the latest version (22.7R2.5) is recommended. This step helps to remove any potential malware present on the device.
- Continuous Monitoring: Implement continuous monitoring and detection mechanisms to identify and respond to any suspicious activities.
Conclusion
CVE-2025-0282 is a critical vulnerability that demands immediate attention. By applying the necessary patches and following the recommended mitigation steps, the risk of exploitation can be significantly reduced. Regularly updating and securing systems is crucial to protect against such vulnerabilities and ensure the safety and integrity of your networks.
