CVE-2025-66174
📋 TL;DR
An improper authentication vulnerability in Hikvision DVR/NVR devices allows attackers with physical access to the serial port to execute unauthorized commands. This affects organizations using vulnerable Hikvision surveillance systems, potentially enabling privilege escalation.
💻 Affected Systems
- Hikvision DVR/NVR devices
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete device compromise allowing attacker to disable security systems, access video feeds, modify configurations, or install persistent malware.
Likely Case
Unauthorized configuration changes, surveillance system disruption, or data exfiltration from connected cameras.
If Mitigated
Limited impact due to physical access controls preventing unauthorized serial port access.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires physical serial port access and knowledge of specific command sequences
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Check vendor advisory for specific firmware versions
Vendor Advisory: https://www.hikvision.com/en/support/cybersecurity/security-advisory/serial-port-privilege-escalation-vulnerabilities-in-some-hikvision-nvr-devices/
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Identify affected device models from vendor advisory. 2. Download latest firmware from Hikvision support portal. 3. Upload firmware via web interface or local update. 4. Reboot device after installation.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Physical Serial Port Protection
allPhysically secure serial ports to prevent unauthorized access
Device Physical Security
allPlace devices in locked cabinets or secure rooms with access controls
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict physical access controls to device locations
- Disable or physically block serial ports using epoxy or port blockers
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check device model against vendor advisory list; devices with accessible serial ports are potentially vulnerableCheck Version:
Check via web interface: System > Maintenance > Version InformationVerify Fix Applied:
Verify firmware version matches patched version from vendor advisory📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Serial port access logs if available
- Unexpected configuration changes
- Unusual reboot events
Network Indicators:
- None - physical access required
SIEM Query:
Not applicable - physical access vulnerability