CVE-2025-59700 is a vulnerability identified in Entrust nShield Connect XC, nShield 5c, and nShield HSMi devices through versions 13.6.11 and 13.7. The issue stems from a lack of integrity protection on the Recovery Partition of these hardware security modules (HSMs). An attacker who has physical proximity and root-level access on the host system can modify this partition, potentially altering recovery mechanisms or injecting malicious code. The Recovery Partition is critical as it may contain firmware or recovery images that ensure the device’s secure operation and integrity. Because the integrity of this partition is not cryptographically protected, unauthorized modifications can go undetected, undermining the trustworthiness of the HSM. The vulnerability requires local access with high privileges (root) and user interaction, limiting remote exploitation possibilities. The CVSS v3.1 score is 5.8 (medium severity), reflecting the high confidentiality and integrity impact but limited attack vector (local physical) and required privileges. No public exploits are known at this time. The CWE-345 classification indicates improper verification of data integrity, a common weakness in secure system design. Given the role of Entrust nShield HSMs in protecting cryptographic keys and performing sensitive cryptographic operations, exploitation could lead to key compromise, unauthorized cryptographic operations, or persistent device compromise.

For European organizations, especially those in finance, government, and critical infrastructure sectors, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Entrust nShield HSMs are widely used for securing cryptographic keys, digital signatures, and sensitive transactions. Unauthorized modification of the Recovery Partition could allow attackers to bypass security controls, extract or manipulate keys, or implant persistent malware within the HSM environment. This undermines the confidentiality and integrity of cryptographic operations, potentially leading to data breaches, fraudulent transactions, or loss of trust in digital identities. The requirement for physical proximity and root access limits the threat to insiders or attackers who gain physical access, but such scenarios are plausible in data centers or shared facilities. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the potential for targeted attacks. European organizations must consider the impact on compliance with data protection regulations and the security of critical services relying on these HSMs.

1. Restrict physical access to Entrust nShield HSM devices to authorized personnel only, employing strong physical security controls such as locked cabinets, surveillance, and access logging. 2. Limit root-level access on host systems interfacing with the HSMs; enforce strict access controls, multi-factor authentication, and regular auditing of privileged accounts. 3. Monitor the integrity of the Recovery Partition and related firmware components using cryptographic checksums or vendor-provided integrity verification tools if available. 4. Implement host-based intrusion detection systems to alert on unauthorized modifications or suspicious activities around the HSM environment. 5. Engage with Entrust support to obtain and apply patches or firmware updates addressing this vulnerability as soon as they are released. 6. Conduct regular security training and awareness for personnel with physical or administrative access to HSMs to reduce insider threat risks. 7. Consider network segmentation and isolation of systems managing HSMs to reduce attack surface. 8. Maintain incident response plans that include scenarios involving HSM compromise to enable rapid detection and remediation.