CVE-2025-32089 identifies a classic buffer overflow vulnerability (CWE-120) in the CvManager_SBI functionality of Dell ControlVault3 and ControlVault3 Plus firmware versions prior to 5.15.14.19 and 6.2.36.47 respectively. The affected hardware is the Broadcom BCM5820X chip, which is embedded in these Dell security modules. The vulnerability arises from a failure to properly check the size of input data during a buffer copy operation within the ControlVault API. An attacker with low-level privileges can craft a malicious API call that triggers this buffer overflow, enabling arbitrary code execution within the ControlVault environment. This can lead to a complete compromise of the security module, undermining hardware-based protections such as cryptographic key storage and authentication mechanisms. The CVSS v3.1 score of 8.8 reflects the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and only limited privileges required, but no user interaction needed. Although no exploits have been reported in the wild yet, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the critical role of ControlVault in device security. The vulnerability was reserved in April 2025 and published in November 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. No patches or mitigations are currently linked, emphasizing the need for vigilance and prompt vendor updates.

For European organizations, this vulnerability threatens the integrity of hardware-based security modules embedded in Dell devices, which are widely used in enterprise environments. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to bypass hardware security controls, extract sensitive cryptographic keys, or execute arbitrary code at a privileged level, potentially leading to full system compromise. This undermines trust in device authentication, secure boot, and encrypted communications, impacting sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure. The high severity and low complexity of exploitation increase the risk of targeted attacks or insider threats. Additionally, the vulnerability could facilitate lateral movement within networks or persistent footholds, complicating incident response. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the critical nature of the affected components demands urgent attention to prevent future exploitation.

Organizations should immediately inventory Dell devices utilizing ControlVault3 or ControlVault3 Plus modules with the Broadcom BCM5820X chip to identify potentially vulnerable systems. Until official patches are released, restrict access to ControlVault API interfaces to trusted administrators only, employing network segmentation and strict access controls to limit exposure. Monitor system logs and security telemetry for unusual API calls or anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. Engage with Dell support channels to obtain timely firmware updates and apply them promptly once available. Consider deploying endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting abnormal process behavior related to ControlVault components. Additionally, implement strict privilege management to minimize the number of users with low-level access capable of issuing ControlVault API calls. Finally, maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans tailored to potential hardware security module compromises.