CVE-2025-65821

As UART download mode is still enabled on the ESP32 chip on which the firmware runs, an adversary can dump the flash from the device and retrieve sensitive…

High · published December 10, 2025

CVSS v3.1
7.5
EPSS
0%
Percentile
29.5
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

🚨 The ESP32 chip has a hidden door wide open for attackers! With UART download mode still enabled, anyone could steal flash data and even reflash the firmware. 🔥 Consider it like a hotel room that forgot to change the locks after the last guest checked out. An unauthorized visitor can now sneak in, rummage through your luggage, and even redecorate your entire room if they want! An attacker could extract sensitive details, including your Wi-Fi credentials, and reprogram the device with malicious firmware. This means they could not only access your network but also turn your device into a potential threat against your entire system!

Put simply

Consider it like a hotel room that forgot to change the locks after the last guest checked out. An unauthorized visitor can now sneak in, rummage through your luggage, and even redecorate your entire room if they want! The vulnerability arises from the UART download mode on the ESP32 chip, which allows an adversary to dump the device's flash memory. This can expose sensitive information and enable firmware reflashing without proper authentication.

What to do

An attacker could extract sensitive details, including your Wi-Fi credentials, and reprogram the device with malicious firmware. This means they could not only access your network but also turn your device into a potential threat against your entire system! To secure your device, disable UART download mode in the firmware settings and ensure only trusted firmware is used during updates. Regularly audit your devices and apply security patches as they become available. Keep an eye on your ESP32 firmware for updates! You've got this! By following these steps, you'll help fortify your devices against potential intrusions. 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS v3.1
7.5 · HIGH
Vector
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.00368 · 29.5th percentile
Published
2025-12-10T00:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 10 DEC 00:00Z
    As UART download mode is still enabled on the ESP32 chip on which the firmware runs, an adversary can dump the flash from the device and retrieve sensitive…
    cvelistv5