CVE-2025-30027: Axis Device ACAP RCE Vulnerability

CVE-2025-30027 Overview

CVE-2025-30027 is an input validation vulnerability affecting Axis network devices through their ACAP (Axis Camera Application Platform) configuration file handling. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation in ACAP configuration files, which can be exploited to achieve arbitrary code execution on affected devices. This vulnerability requires specific conditions to be exploitable: the target Axis device must be configured to allow installation of unsigned ACAP applications, and an attacker must successfully convince the victim to install a malicious ACAP application.

Critical Impact
Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on Axis network devices, potentially compromising surveillance infrastructure, gaining persistent access, or pivoting to other network resources.

Affected Products

Axis network devices with ACAP support
Devices configured to allow unsigned ACAP application installation
Axis Camera Application Platform (ACAP) configurations

Discovery Timeline

2025-08-12 - CVE CVE-2025-30027 published to NVD
2025-08-12 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2025-30027

Vulnerability Analysis

This vulnerability is classified under CWE-1287 (Improper Validation of Specified Type of Input). The core issue lies in the ACAP configuration file parser's failure to properly validate and sanitize input data before processing. When a malicious ACAP application is installed on an Axis device that permits unsigned applications, specially crafted configuration data can escape intended constraints and lead to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the ACAP runtime environment.

The attack requires local access or social engineering to convince an administrator to install the malicious ACAP application. The exploitation chain begins with the installation of an unsigned ACAP package containing malicious configuration directives that exploit the input validation weakness.

Root Cause

The root cause of CVE-2025-30027 is improper input validation within the ACAP configuration file processing mechanism. The configuration parser fails to adequately validate, sanitize, or constrain input values before they are processed by the system. This allows specially crafted input in configuration files to bypass intended security boundaries and execute arbitrary commands or code on the underlying system.

Attack Vector

The attack vector for CVE-2025-30027 is local, requiring the attacker to have the ability to install ACAP applications on the target device. The exploitation scenario involves:

The attacker crafts a malicious ACAP application containing specially formatted configuration data
The target Axis device must be configured to allow unsigned ACAP applications (non-default configuration)
The attacker must convince the victim administrator to install the malicious ACAP package
Upon installation, the malicious configuration data exploits the input validation flaw
Arbitrary code execution is achieved within the device's execution context

The vulnerability mechanism involves malicious configuration parameters that bypass input validation checks. When the ACAP runtime processes these configuration files, the unsanitized input leads to command injection or code execution. For detailed technical analysis, refer to the Axis Security Advisory.

Detection Methods for CVE-2025-30027

Indicators of Compromise

Unexpected or unauthorized ACAP applications installed on Axis devices
Configuration changes allowing unsigned ACAP application installation
Unusual process activity or network connections originating from Axis devices
Anomalous log entries related to ACAP application installation or execution

Detection Strategies

Monitor Axis device configurations for changes to unsigned ACAP installation policies
Implement application whitelisting for approved ACAP applications
Review installed ACAP applications periodically for unauthorized packages
Monitor network traffic from surveillance devices for anomalous outbound connections

Monitoring Recommendations

Enable comprehensive logging on Axis devices and forward logs to a centralized SIEM
Set up alerts for ACAP application installation events
Monitor for configuration changes that enable unsigned ACAP installations
Implement network segmentation and monitor inter-segment traffic from IoT/surveillance devices

How to Mitigate CVE-2025-30027

Immediate Actions Required

Ensure Axis devices are configured to only allow signed ACAP applications (default setting)
Audit all installed ACAP applications and remove any unauthorized packages
Restrict administrative access to Axis device management interfaces
Implement network segmentation to isolate surveillance devices from critical infrastructure

Patch Information

Axis Communications has published a security advisory addressing this vulnerability. Administrators should consult the Axis Security Advisory for CVE-2025-30027 for specific firmware versions and patch availability. Apply vendor-provided firmware updates as soon as they become available for affected devices.

Workarounds

Disable the installation of unsigned ACAP applications on all Axis devices (verify this is the current configuration)
Implement strict access controls limiting who can install ACAP applications
Use network access control lists to restrict management interface access
Train administrators to verify ACAP application authenticity before installation

bash

# Configuration verification example
# Check Axis device settings via web interface or API
# Ensure "Allow unsigned apps" is disabled in ACAP settings
# Navigate to: Settings > Apps > Allow unsigned apps: OFF
# Verify installed applications list for unauthorized packages