CVE-2025-0626:

Hidden Functionality vulnerability (CVE-2025-0626) in Contec Health CMS8000 Patient Monitor firmware allows a backdoor-like mechanism where the monitor binary mounts to a hard-coded routable IP address and enables the device’s network interface, bypassing existing network settings. Triggered by attempting to update the device from the user menu, this capability could let an attacker upload and overwrite files on the device. The issue affects all versions of the CMS8000 and is classified as high-severity.

Score
A numerical rating that indicates how dangerous this vulnerability is.

7.5High

Published Date:Jan 30, 2025
CISA KEV Date:*No Data*
Industries Affected:20

Threat Predictions

EPSS Score:0.1
EPSS Percentile:18%

Exploitability

Score:1.6
Attack Vector:NETWORK
Attack Complexity:HIGH
Privileges Required:NONE
User Interaction:REQUIRED
Scope:UNCHANGED

Impact

Score:5.9
Confidentiality Impact:HIGH
Integrity Impact:HIGH
Availability Impact:HIGH

Description Preview

Overview

This vulnerability describes a hidden, backdoor-like capability embedded in the CMS8000 Patient Monitor’s firmware, where the monitor’s update routine can trigger mounting a fixed IP address and enabling the network interface, effectively bypassing configured network controls. The capability could be exploited to remotely upload or overwrite files on the device, and it affects all versions of the CMS8000. Given its network access vector and potential for substantial impact on device integrity, this vulnerability presents a serious risk to affected medical devices and the environments in which they operate.

Remediation

Apply vendor-provided firmware/fix: Check Contec Health for an official patch or updated firmware that removes or mitigates the hidden functionality. Apply the remediation per vendor instructions and verify the version after update.
If patching is not immediately available, remove devices from networks: Per FDA recommendations, remove CMS8000 devices from networks where feasible.
If removal is not feasible, implement network-level mitigations: Block the suspect IP ranges and addresses associated with this vulnerability, specifically block 202.114.4.0/24 and the addresses 202.114.4.119 and 202.114.4.120, and/or implement firewall/NAC rules to prevent the device from establishing the backdoor-like connection.
Network segmentation and access controls: Place CMS8000 devices on isolated or tightly controlled segments with no routable paths to critical back-end systems; disable or restrict remote update capabilities if possible.
Monitor and audit: Enable enhanced monitoring for unusual outbound connections or file-upload activity from CMS8000 devices; review and preserve logs for investigation.
Asset inventory and communication: Create an inventory of CMS8000 devices, confirm firmware versions, and coordinate with the vendor for remediation; inform relevant stakeholders and regulatory bodies as required.
Validation steps: After applying patches or mitigations, attempt the update procedure in a controlled manner to confirm the hidden functionality no longer triggers and verify that no unauthorized network behavior occurs; conduct functional testing to ensure device operation is preserved post-remediation.