The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-59705 affects Entrust nShield Connect XC, nShield 5c, and nShield HSMi devices up to versions 13.6.11 and 13.7. These hardware security modules (HSMs) are widely used for secure cryptographic key storage and operations in sensitive environments. The flaw allows a physically proximate attacker to escalate privileges by reactivating the USB interface through a chassis probe inserted during the system boot sequence. Normally, the USB interface is disabled or tightly controlled to prevent unauthorized access; however, this vulnerability enables an attacker to bypass these controls by physically interacting with the device hardware at boot time. This unauthorized reactivation could allow the attacker to inject malicious commands or extract sensitive cryptographic material, undermining the confidentiality and integrity of the HSM's protected assets. Exploitation requires physical access to the device and precise timing during boot, limiting the attack vector to insiders or attackers with physical proximity. No public exploits or patches are currently available, and the CVSS score has not been assigned. The vulnerability highlights the importance of physical security in protecting HSMs, which are critical components in securing cryptographic operations for enterprises and governments.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability could be significant, especially for those relying on Entrust nShield HSMs to protect cryptographic keys used in financial transactions, identity management, and critical infrastructure. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized privilege escalation, allowing attackers to compromise cryptographic keys, decrypt sensitive data, or impersonate trusted entities. This would severely impact confidentiality and integrity, potentially causing financial loss, regulatory non-compliance, and reputational damage. The requirement for physical access limits the scope but does not eliminate risk, particularly in environments where physical security controls are weak or where insider threats exist. Organizations in sectors such as banking, government, telecommunications, and energy are particularly vulnerable due to their reliance on HSMs for securing critical operations.

1. Enforce strict physical security measures around HSM devices, including locked server rooms, surveillance, and access controls to prevent unauthorized physical access. 2. Implement tamper-evident seals and chassis intrusion detection mechanisms to alert on unauthorized hardware access attempts. 3. Monitor system boot processes and USB interface states for anomalies that could indicate exploitation attempts. 4. Coordinate with Entrust to obtain and apply security patches or firmware updates as soon as they become available. 5. Conduct regular security audits and penetration tests focusing on physical security and hardware tampering. 6. Train personnel to recognize and report suspicious physical access or device tampering. 7. Consider deploying additional layers of cryptographic key protection, such as multi-factor authentication for key usage and hardware redundancy to minimize impact.