CVE-2000-0250 identifies a vulnerability in the crypt function of the QNX operating system version 4.25a. The crypt function is responsible for encrypting passwords, but in this version of QNX, it uses a weak encryption algorithm. This weakness allows local users—those with access to the system—to decrypt stored password hashes, effectively revealing plaintext passwords. The vulnerability arises because the encryption method does not provide sufficient cryptographic strength to prevent reverse engineering or brute force attacks by an attacker with local access. Since the crypt function is a core component for password security, its compromise undermines the confidentiality and integrity of user credentials. The CVSS score of 7.2 (high severity) reflects the significant impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with the attack vector limited to local access but requiring low attack complexity and no authentication. No patches are available for this vulnerability, and there are no known exploits in the wild, indicating that while the vulnerability is serious, exploitation requires local system access and some technical skill. The affected product, QNX 4.25a, is an older version of a real-time operating system often used in embedded systems and specialized industrial environments. The lack of patch availability means organizations must rely on compensating controls to mitigate risk.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability is primarily on systems running QNX 4.25a, which are typically embedded or industrial control systems. If exploited, local attackers could decrypt password hashes, leading to unauthorized access to privileged accounts and potentially full system compromise. This could result in loss of confidentiality of sensitive data, unauthorized modification of system configurations, and disruption of critical services. In sectors such as manufacturing, telecommunications, transportation, and energy—where QNX is more commonly deployed—this could lead to operational downtime, safety risks, and regulatory compliance issues. Given the local access requirement, the threat is more significant in environments where physical or network access to QNX systems is insufficiently controlled. The absence of patches increases the risk profile, especially in legacy systems that remain in operation. Additionally, the vulnerability could facilitate lateral movement within networks if attackers gain initial footholds, amplifying the potential damage.

Since no official patch is available, European organizations should implement strict access controls to limit local user access to QNX systems, including physical security measures and network segmentation to isolate vulnerable devices. Employing strong authentication mechanisms and monitoring for unusual local access attempts can help detect potential exploitation. Organizations should consider replacing or upgrading legacy QNX 4.25a systems to more secure versions or alternative platforms where feasible. If replacement is not immediately possible, deploying host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS) tailored for QNX environments can alert administrators to suspicious activities. Regular audits of user accounts and password policies should be enforced to minimize the risk of compromised credentials. Additionally, organizations should implement strict logging and monitoring of system access and changes to detect and respond to potential breaches promptly. Training staff on the risks associated with legacy systems and enforcing least privilege principles will further reduce exposure.