Xbox Series kernel exploit surfaces online

A new Xbox Series kernel exploit has been released, allowing users to gain full access to the system's OS in retail mode. Unlike PCs, consoles are generally very restrictive when it comes to homebrew and granting system access to users. Occasionally, however, a new exploit or backdoor emerges to help the community remove some of these restrictions.

One such exploit that recently appeared on the internet is "Collateral Damage." As mentioned, it allows users to access the kernel of the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S consoles' operating systems. However, according to reports, this exploit is somewhat unstable and, while it may not completely brick the console, it can cause it to crash.

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What is the Xbox Series kernel exploit "Collateral Damage"?

What does the "Collateral Damage" exploit do? (Image via Xbox)

Collateral Damage is an ideal exploit for homebrew game makers on Xbox. Developed by Emma Kirkpatrick and Lander Brandt, it is designed for systems running the following kernel versions: 25398.4478, 25398.4908, and 25398.4909. Collateral Damage, available on GitHub, utilizes the Game Script UWP application.

For those concerned that using this Xbox Series kernel exploit could get them into trouble, Emma Kirkpatrick explained last month that it is not a jailbreak. While the exploit provides full access to Xbox's SystemOS, it only affects the virtual machine where apps run. This environment is the same as the one accessed when enabling dev mode.

In simple terms, this exploit allows you to access dev mode on your Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S consoles, which typically requires a one-time purchase to unlock. The developers have stated that using it doesn't compromise the console's internal security measures, meaning it can't be used to pirate games or perform other dubious actions.

This Xbox Series kernel exploit is still in its early stages, so caution is advised when using it. According to the developers, it uses CPU side channel and race conditions, which contribute to its instability. Despite this drawback, the community will likely use the exploit, potentially leading to a new era of homebrew content for Xbox Series X|S or new backward compatibility options.

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