Description
By providing a command-line argument starting with a semi-colon ; to an API endpoint created by the EnhancedCommandExecutor class of the HexStrike AI MCP server, the resultant composed command is executed directly in the context of the MCP server’s normal privilege; typically, this is root. There is no attempt to sanitize these arguments in the default configuration of this MCP server at the affected version (as of commit 2f3a5512 in September of 2025).
EPSS Score:
0%
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of EUVD-2025-199938
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
The vulnerability described in EUVD-2025-199938 pertains to the EnhancedCommandExecutor class of the HexStrike AI MCP server. This class allows command-line arguments starting with a semi-colon (;) to be executed directly with the server's normal privilege, which is typically root. The lack of input sanitization in the default configuration of the affected version (commit 2f3a5512) makes this a critical vulnerability.
Severity Evaluation:
- Base Score: 9.1
- Base Score Version: 3.1
- Base Score Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:N
The CVSS score of 9.1 indicates a critical vulnerability. The vector string highlights the following characteristics:
- Attack Vector (AV): Network (N)
- Attack Complexity (AC): Low (L)
- Privileges Required (PR): None (N)
- User Interaction (UI): None (N)
- Scope (S): Unchanged (U)
- Confidentiality (C): High (H)
- Integrity (I): High (H)
- Availability (A): None (N)
This vulnerability can be exploited remotely with low complexity, requiring no privileges or user interaction, and can result in high impact on confidentiality and integrity.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
Attack Vectors:
- Remote Command Execution: An attacker can send a specially crafted command-line argument starting with a semi-colon to the API endpoint, leading to arbitrary command execution with root privileges.
- Privilege Escalation: If an attacker gains low-level access to the system, they can exploit this vulnerability to escalate their privileges to root.
Exploitation Methods:
- Direct Exploitation: By sending a malicious HTTP request to the API endpoint with a command-line argument starting with a semi-colon, an attacker can execute arbitrary commands.
- Automated Scripts: Attackers can use automated scripts to scan for vulnerable servers and exploit them en masse.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
Affected Systems:
- HexStrike AI MCP server
Affected Software Versions:
- Version corresponding to commit 2f3a5512 (September 2025)
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
Immediate Mitigation:
- Input Sanitization: Implement robust input sanitization to prevent the execution of commands starting with a semi-colon.
- Access Control: Restrict access to the API endpoint to trusted users and systems.
- Patching: Apply the latest patches and updates provided by the vendor to address this vulnerability.
Long-Term Mitigation:
- Code Review: Conduct a thorough code review to identify and fix similar vulnerabilities.
- Security Training: Provide security training to developers to ensure they understand the importance of input validation and sanitization.
- Regular Audits: Perform regular security audits and vulnerability assessments to identify and mitigate potential security risks.
5. Impact on European Cybersecurity Landscape
The vulnerability in the HexStrike AI MCP server poses a significant risk to organizations using this software, particularly those in critical sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government. The potential for remote command execution with root privileges can lead to data breaches, unauthorized access, and system compromise. This underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures and continuous monitoring to protect against such threats.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
Vulnerability Details:
- Class: EnhancedCommandExecutor
- API Endpoint: The specific endpoint that accepts command-line arguments.
- Command Execution: Commands starting with a semi-colon are executed with root privileges.
Detection and Response:
- Logging: Enable detailed logging for the API endpoint to monitor for suspicious activity.
- Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Deploy IDS to detect and alert on attempts to exploit this vulnerability.
- Incident Response: Develop an incident response plan to quickly address any detected exploitation attempts.
References:
Aliases:
- CVE-2025-35028
Assigner:
- AHA
ENISA ID Product:
- ID: f1b91a41-49cc-34c1-9314-b17c9437860f
- Product: HexStrike AI
- Product Version: 33267047667b9accfbf0fdac1c1c7ff12f3a5512
ENISA ID Vendor:
- ID: ad3bc259-b25c-37c6-94d5-86faa7e4d009
- Vendor: 0x4m4
This comprehensive analysis provides a detailed understanding of the vulnerability, its potential impact, and the necessary steps to mitigate the risk. It is essential for cybersecurity professionals to stay vigilant and proactive in addressing such critical vulnerabilities.