CVE-2025-15350 is a deserialization vulnerability classified under CWE-502 affecting Anritsu VectorStar version 2024.11.1. The flaw exists in the CHX file parser, where user-supplied data is not properly validated before deserialization. This improper validation allows an attacker to craft malicious CHX files that, when opened by the VectorStar application, trigger deserialization of untrusted data. Deserialization vulnerabilities are critical because they can lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the vulnerable application. In this case, remote attackers can exploit the vulnerability by convincing a user to open a malicious CHX file or visit a malicious webpage that delivers such a file. The attack requires user interaction but does not require prior authentication or elevated privileges. The CVSS 3.0 score of 7.8 indicates high severity, with attack vector local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), user interaction required (UI:R), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk to environments where VectorStar is used, particularly in telecommunications and electronics testing domains. The lack of a patch link suggests that a fix may not yet be publicly available, emphasizing the need for immediate mitigation strategies.

The vulnerability allows remote code execution, which can lead to complete compromise of affected systems running Anritsu VectorStar. For European organizations, this could result in unauthorized access to sensitive test data, manipulation or destruction of measurement results, and disruption of critical telecommunications testing operations. Given the role of VectorStar in high-precision electronic and telecommunications testing, exploitation could undermine product quality assurance, delay development cycles, and damage organizational reputation. Additionally, attackers could use compromised systems as footholds for lateral movement within networks, potentially targeting critical infrastructure or intellectual property. The requirement for user interaction limits mass exploitation but targeted attacks against key personnel or departments remain a significant threat. The high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts make this vulnerability particularly concerning for sectors reliant on accurate and secure testing environments.

1. Restrict the sources of CHX files to trusted and verified origins only, implementing strict file transfer and sharing policies. 2. Employ application whitelisting to prevent execution of unauthorized or suspicious files within the VectorStar environment. 3. Educate users on the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected CHX files and visiting untrusted websites. 4. Monitor network and endpoint logs for unusual activity related to VectorStar, such as unexpected file openings or process behaviors. 5. Isolate VectorStar installations in segmented network zones to limit potential lateral movement if compromised. 6. Regularly back up critical data and configurations to enable recovery in case of compromise. 7. Engage with Anritsu for timely updates or patches and apply them as soon as they become available. 8. Consider deploying endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting deserialization attack patterns or anomalous code execution within VectorStar processes.