Introduction
OpenHarmony users should be aware of a newly published vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-22897. This buffer overflow vulnerability has been observed in OpenHarmony versions up to and including v5.0.2. The vulnerability can be exploited by a local attacker, potentially causing Denial of Service (DoS) through buffer overflow.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability arises due to a CWE-120 issue, specifically a ‘Classic Buffer Overflow,’ where the buffer copy operation does not verify the size of the input data. According to the Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) version 3.1, this vulnerability has a base score of 3.3, categorized as LOW severity. Key factors contributing to this score include:
- Attack Vector: Local
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Privileges Required: Low
- User Interaction: None
- Impact on Confidentiality and Integrity: None
- Availability Impact: Low
The scope of the vulnerability remains unchanged. Although its impact on availability is limited, it can still disrupt service if not properly mitigated.
Mitigation Strategies
To protect against CVE-2025-22897, consider implementing the following mitigation strategies:
- Update to the latest version: The most effective way to mitigate this vulnerability is updating OpenHarmony to a version beyond v5.0.2. This update should include patches that address the buffer overflow issue.
- Restrict Local Access: Given that the vulnerability requires local access, consider restricting physical access to the systems running vulnerable versions. Implement access controls to minimize the potential attack surface.
- Secure Coding Practices: For developers, it is crucial to adhere to secure coding practices, ensuring that buffer boundaries are properly checked and managed. Implementing such measures can prevent similar vulnerabilities in future software versions.
- Network Security Measures: Although this specific attack vector is local, maintaining robust network security measures can help reduce risks. Implement firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for unusual activities.
Conclusion
CVE-2025-22897 highlights the importance of timely updates and adherence to security best practices. By staying informed of vulnerabilities and applying recommended mitigation strategies, organizations can effectively protect their systems and minimize potential disruptions. For further details and updates, refer to the OpenHarmony Security Bulletin.