Hidden Commands Discovered in Bluetooth Chip Present in Millions of Devices
A significant security vulnerability has come to light, potentially impacting over one billion devices worldwide. Researchers from Tarlogic, a cybersecurity firm, have identified unauthorized commands embedded in a Bluetooth chip that’s widely used in various electronic devices. This discovery reveals a risk whereby malicious actors could exploit these hidden commands to gain entry into countless devices.
The Bluetooth chip in question is known as the ESP32, produced by the Chinese company Espressif. This microcontroller facilitates both WiFi and Bluetooth connections, serving as a critical component in many Internet of Things (IoT) devices—including smart home products. As of 2023, Espressif announced that they had sold one billion units of the ESP32 chip globally, underscoring its extensive reach in the tech market.
Researchers have found that these undocumented commands could allow hackers to mimic a trusted device. By doing so, they could connect with smartphones, computers, and other gadgets to extract sensitive information. Once connected, attackers could almost entirely surveil users’ activities on these devices.
According to Tarlogic, the hidden command can be exploited, enabling malicious actors to carry out impersonation attacks. This could lead to the permanent infecting of sensitive devices, such as mobile phones, computers, smart locks, or even medical equipment, effectively circumventing standard security measures like code audits. Alarmingly, these commands are not documented or acknowledged by Espressif, which raises further concerns about user security.
To aid in their research, Tarlogic developed a new driver tool specifically designed for Bluetooth security investigations. This tool made it possible for them to uncover an astonishing 29 hidden functionalities that can be exploited by attackers for impersonating legitimate devices. Given the ESP32 chip’s low cost—approximately $2—it becomes clear why many manufacturers favor it over more expensive alternatives.
The situation is being categorized under a specific vulnerability identifier known as CVE-2025-27840, according to reports from BleepingComputer. This designation is part of a system that tracks known security flaws, which helps in managing and addressing potential risks associated with software and hardware.
As IoT devices become increasingly commonplace, the potential for exploitation also rises. The implications of such vulnerabilities are profound, as users may not even realize they are being targeted. This incident emphasizes the importance of rigorous security practices and the need for transparency from manufacturers regarding potential risks associated with their products.
The findings by Tarlogic indicate an alarming gap in security within widely used technology, encouraging a broader discussion about device security standards and the necessity for manufacturers to ensure that their components are not just affordable, but also secure. As technology continues to evolve, understanding and addressing these vulnerabilities will become increasingly critical for both consumers and industry professionals. By tackling such security issues head-on, it might be possible to protect users from potential exploitation in the future.
