CVE-2025-11494 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability discovered in GNU Binutils version 2.45, specifically within the _bfd_x86_elf_late_size_sections function located in the bfd/elfxx-x86.c source file of the linker component. This vulnerability arises due to improper bounds checking when processing ELF sections during the linking phase, allowing a local attacker with low privileges to read memory outside the intended buffer boundaries. The flaw does not require elevated privileges beyond local access, nor does it require user interaction, making it a low-complexity attack vector. The out-of-bounds read could lead to information disclosure, potentially exposing sensitive data in memory, such as code or data from other processes or the linker itself. The vulnerability has a CVSS 4.8 (medium) score, reflecting its limited impact and local attack vector. The exploit code has been publicly disclosed, increasing the risk of exploitation, although no known widespread attacks have been reported to date. The vulnerability affects GNU Binutils 2.45, a widely used open-source collection of binary tools essential for compiling and linking software on Unix-like systems. The patch identified by commit b6ac5a8a5b82f0ae6a4642c8d7149b325f4cc60a addresses the issue by correcting the bounds checking logic in the affected function. Organizations using this version of Binutils in their build environments should apply the patch promptly to prevent potential information leakage and maintain the integrity of their software build processes.

The primary impact of CVE-2025-11494 is the potential for local attackers to read sensitive memory contents beyond intended boundaries during the linking process. For European organizations, this could lead to leakage of proprietary code, cryptographic keys, or other sensitive data embedded in memory during software compilation and linking. While the vulnerability does not allow code execution or privilege escalation, information disclosure can facilitate further attacks or intellectual property theft. Organizations with extensive software development operations, especially those handling sensitive or regulated data, may face increased risk if attackers gain local access to build systems. The medium severity rating reflects the limited attack scope (local access required) and absence of remote exploitation, but the availability of public exploit code raises the urgency for patching. Disruption to build pipelines due to exploitation attempts or remediation efforts could also impact operational continuity. Overall, the vulnerability poses a moderate risk to confidentiality and integrity within software development environments in Europe.

1. Apply the official patch identified by commit b6ac5a8a5b82f0ae6a4642c8d7149b325f4cc60a to all affected GNU Binutils 2.45 installations immediately. 2. Restrict local access to build and development systems to trusted personnel only, minimizing the risk of local exploitation. 3. Implement strict access controls and monitoring on build servers to detect unauthorized access attempts. 4. Use containerization or sandboxing for build environments to isolate processes and limit potential memory exposure. 5. Regularly audit and update all development tools and dependencies to the latest secure versions. 6. Educate developers and system administrators about the risks of local vulnerabilities and the importance of timely patching. 7. Incorporate vulnerability scanning and patch management into the software development lifecycle to proactively identify and remediate such issues. 8. Consider employing memory protection mechanisms and runtime instrumentation tools that can detect out-of-bounds memory accesses during builds.