CVE-2025-66052 is an OS command injection vulnerability affecting the Vivotek IP7137 IP camera firmware version 0200a. The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of special elements in the 'system_ntpIt' parameter processed by the /cgi-bin/admin/setparam.cgi endpoint. Because input is not sanitized correctly, an attacker with administrative privileges can inject arbitrary OS commands, potentially leading to full system compromise. The attack vector is network-based, requiring no user interaction but administrative access. However, due to a related vulnerability (CVE-2025-66050), administrative access is not protected by default, significantly lowering the barrier to exploitation. The vendor has not responded to the CNA, and the product is end-of-life, so no firmware updates or patches are expected. This leaves all deployed devices vulnerable indefinitely. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability by enabling command execution, potentially allowing attackers to exfiltrate data, disrupt device operation, or pivot into internal networks. Although no public exploits are known, the high CVSS score (8.6) reflects the critical nature of the flaw. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-78 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command), a common and dangerous class of injection flaws. Given the device's role in surveillance and network monitoring, exploitation could have serious security implications.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses significant risks, especially for those relying on Vivotek IP7137 cameras for security and surveillance. Exploitation can lead to unauthorized command execution, allowing attackers to manipulate camera functions, disable monitoring, or use the device as a foothold for lateral movement within corporate or critical infrastructure networks. The lack of default administrative access protection increases the likelihood of compromise, particularly in environments where default credentials or weak authentication are present. This can result in breaches of sensitive video feeds, loss of monitoring capabilities, and potential exposure of internal network segments. Organizations in sectors such as government, transportation, utilities, and critical infrastructure are particularly at risk due to the strategic importance of surveillance systems. The end-of-life status of the product means that organizations cannot rely on vendor patches and must instead implement compensating controls. The vulnerability could also impact compliance with European data protection regulations if video data confidentiality is compromised.

Given the absence of vendor patches, European organizations should take immediate compensating measures. First, isolate affected Vivotek IP7137 cameras on dedicated network segments with strict access controls and firewall rules limiting administrative access to trusted personnel only. Disable remote administrative access where possible. Change all default credentials and enforce strong, unique passwords for administrative accounts. Implement network monitoring and intrusion detection systems to identify suspicious activity targeting these devices. Consider replacing end-of-life cameras with supported models that receive security updates. If replacement is not immediately feasible, deploy virtual patching techniques such as web application firewalls (WAFs) configured to detect and block malicious payloads targeting the vulnerable parameter. Regularly audit device configurations and logs for signs of compromise. Additionally, educate IT and security teams about the vulnerability and its implications to ensure rapid incident response if exploitation is suspected.