CVE-2025-56513 identifies a critical vulnerability in NiceHash QuickMiner version 6.12.0 related to its software update mechanism. The application performs software updates over an unencrypted HTTP connection without validating digital signatures or performing hash integrity checks on the downloaded update files. This lack of cryptographic verification allows an attacker with the capability to intercept or redirect network traffic to the update URL to hijack the update process. By doing so, the attacker can deliver arbitrary executable code disguised as legitimate updates. Since these executables are automatically executed by the QuickMiner client, this leads to full remote code execution (RCE) on the victim's machine. This vulnerability represents a severe supply chain attack vector because it compromises the trustworthiness of the software update process, a critical component for maintaining software security and integrity. The absence of patch information and the fact that no known exploits are currently in the wild suggest that this vulnerability is newly disclosed and may not yet have been weaponized, but the potential impact remains high due to the nature of the flaw. The vulnerability affects the update mechanism of NiceHash QuickMiner, a popular cryptocurrency mining software, which is often used on high-performance computing systems. The attack requires network-level access to intercept or redirect HTTP traffic, which could be achieved via man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks, compromised routers, or malicious insiders. The lack of authentication and integrity checks in the update process makes exploitation straightforward once the attacker controls the network path. This vulnerability highlights the critical importance of secure update mechanisms that use HTTPS and cryptographic signature verification to prevent supply chain compromises.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be significant, especially for those involved in cryptocurrency mining or using NiceHash QuickMiner for computational tasks. Successful exploitation results in full remote code execution, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the QuickMiner process. This could lead to data theft, deployment of ransomware, lateral movement within networks, or complete system compromise. Given the supply chain nature of the attack, it undermines trust in software updates and can facilitate widespread infection if attackers target update servers or network infrastructure. Organizations with lax network segmentation or insufficient monitoring may find it difficult to detect such attacks. Additionally, the use of HTTP for updates exposes organizations to risks from compromised network devices or malicious Wi-Fi hotspots, which are common attack vectors in public or poorly secured networks. The potential for attackers to deliver persistent malware through this vector can disrupt business operations, cause financial losses, and damage reputations. Furthermore, regulatory compliance in Europe, such as GDPR, may be impacted if personal data is compromised due to this vulnerability. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently provides a window for organizations to proactively mitigate the risk before active attacks emerge.

To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should immediately cease using NiceHash QuickMiner version 6.12.0 until a patched version is released that enforces secure update mechanisms. Network administrators should implement network-level protections such as enforcing HTTPS traffic via firewall rules or proxy configurations to prevent HTTP update requests. Deploying network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) capable of detecting anomalous HTTP traffic or MITM attack patterns can provide early warning. Organizations should also consider isolating mining systems from critical network segments to limit lateral movement in case of compromise. Where possible, use endpoint protection solutions that can detect and block unauthorized code execution. Monitoring for unusual process creation or network connections originating from mining hosts can help identify exploitation attempts. If immediate patching is not possible, organizations can implement DNS filtering or host-based firewall rules to block access to the update URLs until secure updates are available. Finally, educating users and administrators about the risks of untrusted networks and the importance of verifying software authenticity is essential to reduce exposure to MITM attacks.