CVE-2025-28386 is a remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability identified in the Plugin Management component of OpenC3 COSMOS version 6.0.0. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of file uploads, specifically allowing attackers to upload a crafted .txt file that can trigger arbitrary code execution on the affected system. OpenC3 COSMOS is a software platform used for mission control and operations, often in aerospace and satellite communications contexts. The Plugin Management component is responsible for handling extensions or plugins that enhance the core functionality of the system. Due to insufficient validation or sanitization of uploaded files, an attacker can craft a malicious .txt file that, when processed by the system, executes code with the privileges of the application. This type of vulnerability is critical because it allows an unauthenticated remote attacker to gain control over the system without requiring user interaction beyond the file upload. The lack of a CVSS score suggests this is a newly published vulnerability (as of June 13, 2025) with limited public information and no known exploits in the wild at the time of reporting. However, the nature of RCE vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure software like OpenC3 COSMOS implies a high risk if exploited. The absence of affected version details beyond 6.0.0 limits precise scope assessment, but organizations using this version should consider themselves at risk. No patches or mitigations have been publicly released yet, increasing the urgency for defensive measures.

For European organizations, particularly those involved in aerospace, satellite operations, defense, and critical infrastructure sectors, the impact of this vulnerability could be severe. Successful exploitation would allow attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely, potentially leading to full system compromise. This could result in unauthorized access to sensitive mission data, disruption of satellite control operations, manipulation of telemetry, or even denial of service conditions. Given the strategic importance of space and satellite communications in Europe for both civilian and military applications, exploitation could undermine operational integrity and national security. Additionally, compromised systems could be leveraged as pivot points for lateral movement within organizational networks, increasing the risk of broader cyber espionage or sabotage campaigns. The lack of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk, but the critical nature of the vulnerability demands proactive attention. Organizations relying on OpenC3 COSMOS should assume a high-impact scenario if the vulnerability is exploited.

1. Immediate Inventory and Assessment: Identify all instances of OpenC3 COSMOS v6.0.0 within the organization, focusing on those with active Plugin Management components. 2. Restrict File Upload Capabilities: Temporarily disable or restrict the Plugin Management file upload functionality to trusted users only, or suspend plugin uploads until a patch is available. 3. Network Segmentation: Isolate systems running OpenC3 COSMOS from general enterprise networks to limit exposure and lateral movement in case of compromise. 4. Implement Application Whitelisting: Enforce strict execution policies to prevent unauthorized code execution from unexpected files or directories. 5. Monitor and Log File Uploads: Enable detailed logging of file upload activities and monitor for unusual or unauthorized upload attempts, especially involving .txt files. 6. Engage with Vendor: Contact OpenC3 COSMOS vendor or support channels to obtain patches or official mitigation guidance as soon as they become available. 7. Prepare Incident Response: Develop and rehearse incident response plans specific to potential exploitation scenarios involving OpenC3 COSMOS. 8. Employ Intrusion Detection: Deploy host-based and network-based intrusion detection systems with signatures or heuristics targeting suspicious file upload and execution behaviors. These measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on the unique aspects of the Plugin Management component and the operational context of OpenC3 COSMOS.