CVE-2025-15350 Overview
CVE-2025-15350 is a critical insecure deserialization vulnerability affecting Anritsu VectorStar network analyzer software. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations through the parsing of specially crafted CHX files. The flaw exists due to the lack of proper validation of user-supplied data during CHX file parsing, resulting in deserialization of untrusted data.
User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability—the target must visit a malicious page or open a malicious file. Successful exploitation enables an attacker to execute code in the context of the current process, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
Critical Impact
Remote code execution through malicious CHX file parsing allows attackers to gain full control of affected Anritsu VectorStar installations with user-level privileges.
Affected Products
- Anritsu VectorStar (specific versions not disclosed)
Discovery Timeline
- 2026-01-23 - CVE-2025-15350 published to NVD
- 2026-01-26 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2025-15350
Vulnerability Analysis
This vulnerability is classified as CWE-502: Deserialization of Untrusted Data. The flaw resides in the CHX file parsing functionality of Anritsu VectorStar, a vector network analyzer platform used for RF and microwave testing applications. When the application processes a maliciously crafted CHX file, it fails to properly validate the serialized data before deserializing it, allowing an attacker to inject malicious objects into the application's execution context.
The vulnerability requires local access, meaning the attacker must convince a user to open a malicious CHX file or visit a webpage that delivers such a file. Once the file is processed, the attacker-controlled serialized data is deserialized without adequate validation, enabling arbitrary code execution within the context of the current process.
Root Cause
The root cause of CVE-2025-15350 is improper validation of user-supplied data within the CHX file parsing routine. The application deserializes data from CHX files without verifying the integrity or trustworthiness of the serialized objects. This allows an attacker to craft a malicious CHX file containing serialized objects that, when deserialized, execute arbitrary code or instantiate dangerous object types.
Attack Vector
The attack vector for this vulnerability is local, requiring user interaction. An attacker would typically deliver a malicious CHX file through:
- Phishing emails - Sending targeted emails with malicious CHX file attachments to users of Anritsu VectorStar
- Malicious websites - Hosting malicious CHX files on web servers and convincing users to download and open them
- Supply chain compromise - Injecting malicious CHX files into legitimate file sharing or data exchange workflows
When a user opens the crafted CHX file in Anritsu VectorStar, the deserialization vulnerability is triggered, executing the attacker's payload with the privileges of the current user. The vulnerability was originally tracked as ZDI-CAN-27039 by the Zero Day Initiative before receiving its CVE designation.
For technical details regarding the exploitation mechanism, refer to the Zero Day Initiative Advisory ZDI-25-1201.
Detection Methods for CVE-2025-15350
Indicators of Compromise
- Unexpected CHX files appearing in system directories or user download folders
- Anritsu VectorStar process spawning unexpected child processes or network connections
- Anomalous file access patterns during CHX file processing
- Suspicious serialized object patterns within CHX files
Detection Strategies
- Monitor file system activity for CHX files originating from untrusted sources or email attachments
- Implement endpoint detection rules to alert on unusual process behavior following CHX file opens
- Deploy application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized code execution from the VectorStar process context
- Utilize behavioral analysis to detect post-exploitation activities such as persistence mechanisms or lateral movement
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enable enhanced logging for Anritsu VectorStar application events and file access operations
- Configure SIEM rules to correlate CHX file access with subsequent suspicious process activity
- Monitor network traffic from systems running VectorStar for anomalous outbound connections
- Implement file integrity monitoring on critical system directories
How to Mitigate CVE-2025-15350
Immediate Actions Required
- Restrict access to CHX files from untrusted sources until patches are available
- Implement network segmentation to isolate systems running Anritsu VectorStar
- Train users to avoid opening CHX files from unknown or untrusted sources
- Apply the principle of least privilege to accounts using VectorStar software
Patch Information
Consult the Zero Day Initiative Advisory ZDI-25-1201 for the latest patch information from Anritsu. Organizations should apply vendor-supplied patches as soon as they become available and verify successful installation.
Workarounds
- Block or quarantine CHX files at email gateways and web proxies until patches are deployed
- Disable automatic file associations for CHX files to prevent accidental opening
- Run Anritsu VectorStar in a sandboxed or virtualized environment to contain potential exploitation
- Implement application control policies to restrict CHX file processing to trusted sources only
Organizations should contact Anritsu support directly for additional mitigation guidance specific to their deployment environment.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
