CVE-2025-41109 identifies a critical security flaw in Ghost Robotics Vision 60 version 0.27.2, centered on the use of hard-coded credentials and the absence of authentication mechanisms on its physical network interfaces—specifically three RJ45 connectors and a USB Type-C port. The robot’s internal router automatically assigns IP addresses to any device physically connected, without verifying credentials or authenticating the device. This design flaw allows an attacker with physical access to connect a rogue WiFi access point or other network device, thereby gaining unauthorized access to the robot’s internal network. Once connected, the attacker can exploit the fact that the robot operates on ROS 2 (Robot Operating System 2), which by default lacks authentication, enabling the attacker to monitor, intercept, or manipulate all data transmitted within the robot’s network. The vulnerability stems from CWE-798, the use of hard-coded credentials or lack of proper authentication controls, which is a common security weakness that can lead to unauthorized access. The CVSS 4.0 base score of 8.7 reflects the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with no privileges or user interaction required, but with the attack vector being adjacent network (physical connection). No known exploits are currently in the wild, but the ease of exploitation given physical access makes this a significant risk. The lack of patch links suggests that a fix may not yet be available, emphasizing the need for immediate compensating controls. This vulnerability could be exploited to compromise the robot’s operational integrity, potentially leading to espionage, sabotage, or safety risks in environments where these robots are deployed.

For European organizations deploying Ghost Robotics Vision 60 robots, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk to operational security and data confidentiality. Attackers gaining physical access to the robot can infiltrate its network, potentially intercepting sensitive data or issuing malicious commands. This could disrupt robotic operations in critical infrastructure, manufacturing, logistics, or defense sectors, where such robots might be used. The lack of authentication on ROS 2 exacerbates the risk, as attackers can move laterally within the robot’s network environment. Confidentiality breaches could expose proprietary or personal data, while integrity compromises might lead to altered robot behavior, causing safety hazards or operational failures. Availability could also be impacted if attackers disable or hijack the robot. The risk is heightened in environments with less physical security or where robots are deployed in public or semi-public spaces. European organizations must consider the potential for espionage, sabotage, and operational disruption, especially in sectors with strategic importance such as defense, critical infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing.

To mitigate CVE-2025-41109, European organizations should implement strict physical security controls to prevent unauthorized access to the robot’s RJ45 and USB Type-C ports, including locked enclosures or tamper-evident seals. Network segmentation should isolate the robot’s internal network from broader organizational networks to limit lateral movement if compromised. Deploying authentication mechanisms on ROS 2 communications is critical; organizations should enable or develop authentication plugins or middleware that enforce identity verification and encryption. Monitoring network traffic for unusual devices or connections on the robot’s interfaces can provide early detection of rogue devices. Where possible, disable unused physical interfaces to reduce attack surface. Organizations should engage with Ghost Robotics for firmware updates or patches addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once available. Additionally, conducting regular security audits and penetration tests on robotic systems can help identify and remediate weaknesses. Training personnel on the risks of physical access to robotic systems and enforcing strict access policies will further reduce exploitation likelihood.