CVE-2025-0626
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability in patient monitor firmware creates a backdoor by forcing the device to connect to a hard-coded routable IP address when users attempt to update the device. This allows attackers to potentially upload and overwrite files on medical devices. Affected systems include Contec and Epsimed patient monitors used in healthcare settings.
💻 Affected Systems
- Contec CMS8000 patient monitors
- Epsimed patient monitors
⚠️ Manual Verification Required
This CVE does not have specific version information in our database, so automatic vulnerability detection cannot determine if your system is affected.
Why? The CVE database entry doesn't specify which versions are vulnerable (no version ranges provided by the vendor/NVD).
🔒 Custom verification scripts are available for registered users. Sign up free to download automated test scripts.
- Review the CVE details at NVD
- Check vendor security advisories for your specific version
- Test if the vulnerability is exploitable in your environment
- Consider updating to the latest version as a precaution
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Malicious actors could upload malicious firmware to medical devices, potentially compromising patient safety by altering monitor readings or disrupting critical healthcare functions.
Likely Case
Attackers could gain unauthorized access to patient data, disrupt monitoring operations, or use devices as footholds into hospital networks.
If Mitigated
With proper network segmentation and monitoring, the risk is limited to potential device compromise without broader network impact.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires the user to trigger the update function, but the forced network connection and file overwrite capabilities create significant risk.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Updated firmware versions from manufacturers
Vendor Advisory: https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/ics-medical-advisories/icsma-25-030-01
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Contact Contec or Epsimed for updated firmware. 2. Follow manufacturer instructions to apply firmware updates. 3. Verify the update removed the hard-coded IP functionality. 4. Test device functionality post-update.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Network Segmentation and Firewall Rules
allBlock outbound connections from patient monitors to external IP addresses, especially the hard-coded IP mentioned in advisories.
Disable Update Functionality
allPrevent users from accessing device update menus through administrative controls.
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate affected devices on separate VLANs with strict egress filtering
- Implement network monitoring for connections to the hard-coded IP address
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check device firmware version against manufacturer patched versions. Monitor network traffic for connections to the hard-coded IP when update is attempted.Check Version:
Check device firmware version through device menu or manufacturer toolsVerify Fix Applied:
After patching, attempt device update and verify no connections are made to external hard-coded IP addresses.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unexpected network interface activation
- Connection attempts to external IPs from patient monitors
- Update process logs showing external connections
Network Indicators:
- Outbound connections from patient monitors to external IP addresses (especially 112.33.51.xx ranges)
- Unexpected network traffic from medical devices
SIEM Query:
source_ip IN (patient_monitor_ips) AND dest_ip IN (112.33.51.0/24) AND port=443🔗 References
- https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/ics-medical-advisories/icsma-25-030-01
- https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/cybersecurity-vulnerabilities-certain-patient-monitors-contec-and-epsimed-fda-safety-communication
- https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/backdoor-found-in-two-healthcare-patient-monitors-linked-to-ip-in-china/
- https://www.cisa.gov/resources-tools/resources/contec-cms8000-contains-backdoor
- https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/cybersecurity-vulnerabilities-certain-patient-monitors-contec-and-epsimed-fda-safety-communication
