CVE-2025-28389 identifies a vulnerability in OpenC3 COSMOS version 6.0.0 related to weak password requirements that enable attackers to bypass authentication through brute force attacks. OpenC3 COSMOS is a software platform used for command and control operations, often in critical infrastructure and industrial control systems. The vulnerability arises because the system's password policy does not enforce sufficient complexity or length, allowing attackers to systematically guess passwords until successful authentication is achieved. This bypass effectively grants unauthorized access to the system without needing to exploit other technical flaws. Since authentication is a primary security barrier, bypassing it compromises the integrity and confidentiality of the system. The absence of a CVSS score and known exploits in the wild suggests this vulnerability is newly disclosed and not yet widely exploited, but the potential for abuse remains significant given the nature of the weakness. The lack of patch links indicates that a fix may not yet be available, increasing the urgency for organizations to implement compensating controls. The vulnerability does not specify affected versions beyond 6.0.0, but it is prudent to assume that this version is impacted. The attack vector is likely remote, as brute force attacks typically occur over network interfaces where authentication is required. No user interaction is needed beyond the attacker initiating the brute force attempts. The vulnerability primarily impacts confidentiality and integrity by allowing unauthorized access, and availability could be indirectly affected if attackers disrupt operations after gaining control.

For European organizations, especially those operating critical infrastructure, industrial control systems, or command and control platforms using OpenC3 COSMOS, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Unauthorized access could lead to data breaches, manipulation of operational parameters, or disruption of essential services. The ability to bypass authentication through brute force attacks means that attackers can gain persistent access, potentially leading to espionage, sabotage, or ransomware deployment. Given the strategic importance of sectors such as energy, transportation, and manufacturing in Europe, exploitation could have cascading effects on national security and economic stability. Additionally, organizations subject to strict data protection regulations like GDPR may face compliance violations and reputational damage if breaches occur. The lack of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the simplicity of the attack vector increases the likelihood of future exploitation. The impact is heightened in environments where multi-factor authentication or additional access controls are not implemented, as the weak password policy alone becomes the single point of failure.

1. Immediately review and strengthen password policies within OpenC3 COSMOS environments, enforcing minimum complexity, length, and lockout thresholds to prevent brute force attempts. 2. Implement account lockout mechanisms after a defined number of failed login attempts to slow or block brute force attacks. 3. Deploy multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an additional layer of security beyond passwords. 4. Monitor authentication logs for unusual login attempts or patterns indicative of brute force activity and establish alerting mechanisms. 5. Restrict network access to authentication interfaces using network segmentation, firewalls, and VPNs to limit exposure to untrusted networks. 6. Regularly update and patch OpenC3 COSMOS as vendor fixes become available. 7. Conduct penetration testing and security assessments focused on authentication mechanisms to identify and remediate weaknesses. 8. Educate system administrators and users about the risks of weak passwords and the importance of secure authentication practices. 9. If possible, implement intrusion prevention systems (IPS) or web application firewalls (WAF) that can detect and block brute force attempts at the network perimeter.