CVE-2025-11412 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability discovered in GNU Binutils version 2.45, specifically within the bfd_elf_gc_record_vtentry function located in the bfd/elflink.c source file of the linker component. The vulnerability arises from improper bounds checking during the manipulation of ELF garbage collection records, which can cause the program to read memory outside the intended buffer boundaries. This flaw requires local access with low privileges (PR:L) and does not require user interaction or elevated privileges, making it accessible to any local user with limited rights. The vulnerability does not directly allow code execution or privilege escalation but can lead to information disclosure or application crashes due to invalid memory reads. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 4.8 (medium severity), reflecting the limited scope and impact. The patch identified by commit 047435dd988a3975d40c6626a8f739a0b2e154bc addresses the issue by correcting the bounds checking logic. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, but public disclosure means attackers could develop exploits. GNU Binutils is widely used in software development and build environments, making this vulnerability relevant to organizations relying on these tools for compiling and linking software.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-11412 lies in potential information disclosure and stability issues within development and build environments that utilize GNU Binutils 2.45. While the vulnerability does not directly compromise system confidentiality or integrity at a high level, it could be leveraged by local attackers to glean sensitive memory contents or cause denial-of-service conditions by crashing linker processes. This is particularly critical in environments where multiple users share build servers or developer workstations, increasing the risk of insider threats or lateral movement. Organizations involved in software development, embedded systems, or critical infrastructure that depend on GNU toolchains may face disruptions or data leakage risks if unpatched. The requirement for local access limits remote exploitation, but insider threats or compromised accounts could exploit this vulnerability. Additionally, unstable linker behavior could delay software releases or introduce subtle build errors, impacting operational continuity.

Organizations should promptly apply the official patch identified by commit 047435dd988a3975d40c6626a8f739a0b2e154bc to all systems running GNU Binutils version 2.45. Beyond patching, it is critical to enforce strict local user access controls to limit the number of users who can execute or interact with the linker component, reducing the attack surface. Implementing robust monitoring of build environments for unusual crashes or memory access errors can help detect exploitation attempts. Segregating development and build environments from sensitive production systems minimizes potential lateral movement. Regularly auditing installed Binutils versions across all developer and build machines ensures no vulnerable instances remain. For organizations using automated build pipelines, integrating vulnerability scanning and patch management into CI/CD workflows will help maintain secure toolchains. Finally, educating developers and system administrators about the risks of local vulnerabilities and the importance of least privilege principles will further reduce exposure.