CVE-2025-1365

What it actually does

Buffer overflow in process_symtab of readelf.c triggered by crafted input to the D/a argument, allowing memory corruption during ELF symbol table processing.

Why it matters to the business

Local users may crash analysis tools or execute arbitrary code on systems that use elfutils for binary inspection, increasing risk of privilege escalation or service disruption in development and forensic workflows.

How an attack unfolds

An attacker with local access crafts input that manipulates the D/a argument passed to eu-readelf, causing the process_symtab function to overflow a buffer and corrupt memory, potentially leading to code execution; a public exploit is available.

How to fix it

Apply the upstream patch identified by commit 5e5c0394d82c53e97750fe7b18023e6f84157b81 or upgrade to a version of elfutils that contains the fix; rebuild and redeploy any dependent packages.

How to confirm the fix worked

Confirm the installed elfutils version is newer than 0.192 or contains commit 5e5c0394d82c53e97750fe7b18023e6f84157b81; run eu-readelf against known-good and crafted test inputs to verify absence of crashes or overflows.

Typical attack path

1. Gain local shell access on a target system
2. Prepare a malicious ELF file or command-line argument targeting the D/a parameter
3. Invoke eu-readelf with the crafted input
4. Trigger buffer overflow in process_symtab
5. Leverage memory corruption for code execution or denial of service

How to detect it

Review local process execution logs and command history for invocations of eu-readelf with unusual arguments or files; inspect core dumps or crash reports from readelf processes for signs of memory corruption.

What your security team should do

• Prioritize patching elfutils on all systems that invoke eu-readelf or related utilities
• Restrict local access to binary analysis tools where feasible
• Monitor for new public exploits and update EPSS tracking
• Include elfutils in regular vulnerability scanning and SBOM inventories