CVE-2025-11414

What it actually does

Out-of-bounds read in get_link_hash_entry within bfd/elflink.c of the GNU Binutils linker component, resulting in local memory corruption that can crash the linker process.

Why it matters to the business

Build and compilation workflows on developer and CI systems can be disrupted by crashes during linking, leading to delayed software releases and increased troubleshooting effort.

How an attack unfolds

A local attacker supplies a crafted ELF object file to the linker; when get_link_hash_entry processes it, an out-of-bounds read occurs, potentially causing denial of service.

How to fix it

Upgrade GNU Binutils to version 2.46; apply patch aeaaa9af6359c8e394ce9cf24911fec4f4d23703. Rebuild any dependent packages after upgrade.

How to confirm the fix worked

Confirm installed version reports 2.46 or later; verify the patch commit is present in bfd/elflink.c and test linking with known trigger files.

Typical attack path

1. Gain local shell access on a system running vulnerable Binutils
2. Craft a malicious ELF file that triggers the flawed hash entry lookup
3. Invoke the linker (ld) against the file to trigger the out-of-bounds read
4. Observe process crash or abnormal termination

How to detect it

Review system and application logs for linker segmentation faults or abnormal exits during object file processing; inspect core dumps for memory access violations around elflink.c functions.

What your security team should do

• Immediately upgrade Binutils on all build hosts and developer machines
• Scan source repositories and CI pipelines for pinned vulnerable versions
• Limit local user access on systems performing linking operations
• Monitor public exploit disclosures given the published proof-of-concept