CVE-2025-60938 is a remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability identified in Emoncms version 11.7.3, an open-source energy monitoring and management platform. The vulnerability exists in the firmware upload functionality accessible via the /admin/upload-custom-firmware endpoint. Specifically, it stems from insufficient input validation of user-controlled parameters including filename, port, baud_rate, core, and autoreset. These parameters are used during the firmware upload process, and improper sanitization allows an authenticated attacker to inject and execute arbitrary commands on the underlying system hosting Emoncms. This can lead to full system compromise, including unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of energy monitoring services, or pivoting to other network resources. The attack requires the attacker to be authenticated, which means they must have valid credentials or have compromised an account with access to the admin upload feature. No public exploits or patches have been reported yet, and no CVSS score has been assigned. The vulnerability was reserved on 2025-09-26 and published on 2025-10-24. Given the nature of Emoncms as a tool often deployed in energy management and IoT environments, exploitation could have serious operational impacts. The lack of input validation in multiple parameters increases the attack surface, making it easier for attackers to craft payloads. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and rigorous input validation in web applications managing critical infrastructure.

For European organizations, especially those involved in energy management, smart grid operations, or industrial IoT deployments using Emoncms, this vulnerability could lead to severe consequences. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands, potentially leading to data theft, service disruption, or manipulation of energy monitoring data. This could impact operational continuity, regulatory compliance, and safety. Given the critical role of energy infrastructure in Europe’s economy and security, such a compromise could have cascading effects on other sectors relying on stable energy supply. Additionally, attackers could use compromised systems as footholds for lateral movement within networks, increasing the risk of broader intrusions. The requirement for authentication limits exposure but does not eliminate risk, as credential theft or insider threats could facilitate exploitation. The absence of known exploits suggests limited current threat activity, but the vulnerability’s nature means it could be targeted in the future, especially as energy infrastructure becomes more digitized.

1. Immediately restrict access to the /admin/upload-custom-firmware endpoint to only trusted administrators using network segmentation and strong access controls. 2. Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all accounts with access to the firmware upload feature to reduce risk from credential compromise. 3. Apply strict input validation and sanitization on all user-controlled parameters (filename, port, baud_rate, core, autoreset) to prevent command injection. 4. Monitor logs for unusual activity related to firmware uploads or command execution attempts. 5. If possible, disable the firmware upload feature until a vendor patch or official fix is available. 6. Conduct regular audits of user accounts and permissions to ensure only necessary personnel have upload privileges. 7. Deploy network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) with rules targeting suspicious command injection patterns. 8. Stay informed on vendor advisories and apply patches promptly once released. 9. Consider deploying application-layer firewalls or web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to block malicious payloads targeting this endpoint. 10. Educate administrators about phishing and credential theft risks to prevent unauthorized access.