End-of-Train and Head-of-Train remote linking…: Weak Authentication
CVE-2025-1727 is a high-severity weak authentication vulnerability in End-of-Train and Head-of-Train remote linking protocol, with a CVSS 3.1 base score of 8.1 out of 10. It can be exploited from the same local network by an unauthenticated attacker, without any action from a user. Affected End-of-Train and Head-of-Train remote linking protocol versions: All versions. The record does not name a fixed version, so check the vendor advisory. There is no confirmed exploitation so far. EPSS estimates a 0.63% chance of exploitation within 30 days, higher than 51% of scored CVEs.
High severity with no evidence of exploitation so far.
What to do
- Check which version of End-of-Train and Head-of-Train remote linking protocol you run against the affected versions below, and install the vendor's latest release.
Affected products and versions
| Vendor | Product | Affected versions | Fixed in |
|---|---|---|---|
| End-of-Train and Head-of-Train remote linking protocol | End-of-Train and Head-of-Train remote linking protocol | All versions | Not stated |
Version data comes from the organisation that assigned the CVE. Confirm against the vendor advisory before deciding you are unaffected.
How the severity score breaks down
- Attack vector
- AdjacentThe attacker must be on the same local network segment.
- Attack complexity
- LowNo special conditions are needed; the attack works reliably.
- Privileges required
- NoneNo account or login is needed.
- User interaction
- NoneNo action by a victim is required.
- Scope
- UnchangedImpact stays within the vulnerable component.
- Confidentiality
- NoneNo data is disclosed.
- Integrity
- HighData or code can be modified at will.
- Availability
- HighThe component can be taken down completely.
Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:A/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:H/A:H. Scored by CNA (hq.dhs.gov).
| Scoring system | Score | Severity | Scored by |
|---|---|---|---|
| CVSS 4.0 | 7.2 | High | CNA (hq.dhs.gov) |
| CVSS 3.1 | 8.1 | High | CNA (hq.dhs.gov) |
Official description
The protocol used for remote linking over RF for End-of-Train and Head-of-Train (also known as a FRED) relies on a BCH checksum for packet creation. It is possible to create these EoT and HoT packets with a software defined radio and issue brake control commands to the EoT device, disrupting operations or potentially overwhelming the brake systems.
Source: the CVE record as published by its numbering authority, via NVD and CVE.org.
The underlying weakness: Weak Authentication
The product uses an authentication mechanism to restrict access to specific users or identities, but the mechanism does not sufficiently prove that the claimed identity is correct.
Timeline
- CVE record published.
- CISA published its SSVC assessment (exploitation: none, automatable: no, technical impact: total).
- Record last changed materially (score, affected products, status or references).
References
Other references
Recent Weak Authentication vulnerabilities
- 7.0 High severity
- 9.8 Critical severity
- 8.3 High severity
- 9.8 Critical severity
- 9.8 Critical severity
- 8.2 High severity
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