CVE-2025-11495 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in GNU Binutils version 2.45, affecting the elf_x86_64_relocate_section function within the elf64-x86-64.c source file of the linker component. This vulnerability arises due to improper handling of relocation data during the linking process, which can lead to heap memory corruption. An attacker with local access and limited privileges can exploit this flaw by crafting malicious input that triggers the buffer overflow during the relocation of sections in ELF binaries. The vulnerability does not require elevated privileges or user interaction, but exploitation is limited to local attackers. The impact includes potential denial of service through application crashes or, in some cases, arbitrary code execution if the heap corruption is leveraged effectively. The vulnerability has a CVSS 4.8 score, reflecting medium severity, with attack vector local, low complexity, no privileges required beyond local access, and no user interaction needed. The patch identified by commit 6b21c8b2ecfef5c95142cbc2c32f185cb1c26ab0 addresses this issue by correcting the buffer handling logic. While no exploits are currently known in the wild, the public disclosure of the vulnerability means that attackers could develop exploits. GNU Binutils is widely used in software development and build environments, especially on Linux systems, making this vulnerability relevant for organizations relying on these tools for compiling and linking software.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-11495 lies in the potential compromise of build environments and development pipelines that utilize GNU Binutils 2.45. Successful exploitation could lead to denial of service conditions, disrupting software compilation and deployment processes, or potentially allow local attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the linker. This could facilitate further lateral movement or privilege escalation within internal networks. Organizations involved in critical infrastructure, software development, or those that maintain Linux-based systems are particularly at risk. Disruption in build environments can delay software releases and impact operational continuity. Although remote exploitation is not possible, insider threats or compromised local accounts could leverage this vulnerability. The medium severity rating reflects a moderate risk, but the presence of a publicly disclosed exploit increases urgency for patching. Failure to address this vulnerability could expose European entities to targeted attacks, especially in sectors with high reliance on open-source toolchains.

To mitigate CVE-2025-11495, European organizations should immediately apply the official patch identified by commit 6b21c8b2ecfef5c95142cbc2c32f185cb1c26ab0 to all affected GNU Binutils 2.45 installations. It is critical to verify that all development and build servers are updated to prevent exploitation. Additionally, organizations should restrict local access to build environments, enforce strict user privilege management, and monitor for unusual linker activity or crashes that could indicate attempted exploitation. Implementing host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS) to detect anomalous behavior related to linker processes can provide early warning. Regularly auditing and limiting the number of users with local access to critical build systems reduces the attack surface. Incorporating secure software development lifecycle (SDLC) practices, including regular dependency and toolchain updates, will help prevent similar vulnerabilities. Finally, organizations should maintain up-to-date backups of build environments and binaries to enable rapid recovery in case of disruption.