CVE-2025-14569 is a use-after-free vulnerability identified in the ggml-org whisper.cpp project, specifically affecting versions 1.8.0 through 1.8.2. The vulnerability resides in the read_audio_data function within the /whisper.cpp/examples/common-whisper.cpp file. Use-after-free occurs when a program continues to use memory after it has been freed, leading to undefined behavior such as memory corruption, crashes, or potential code execution. This vulnerability requires local access with low privileges and does not require user interaction, making it a local privilege escalation or denial-of-service vector rather than a remote attack. The CVSS 4.8 score reflects a medium severity, considering the attack vector is local and the complexity is low. The vulnerability could allow an attacker to manipulate audio data processing, potentially causing application crashes or memory corruption that might be leveraged for further exploitation. The exploit code has been publicly disclosed, increasing the risk of opportunistic attacks. The vendor has been notified but has not yet issued a patch or response, leaving users exposed. The affected software is used in AI and audio processing contexts, which may be integrated into larger systems or services.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-14569 depends on the deployment of whisper.cpp in their environments. Organizations using whisper.cpp for AI-driven audio transcription, voice recognition, or related services may face risks of application instability, data corruption, or potential escalation of privileges if attackers exploit the use-after-free flaw. This could lead to denial of service or unauthorized access to sensitive audio data, impacting confidentiality and availability. Given the local attack vector, insider threats or compromised user accounts pose the highest risk. Disruption in AI services could affect sectors like telecommunications, media, and research institutions heavily invested in speech technologies. The medium severity suggests moderate risk but should not be underestimated due to the public availability of exploit code and lack of vendor remediation. Organizations relying on whisper.cpp in production or research should assess exposure and implement mitigations promptly.

1. Restrict local access to systems running vulnerable versions of whisper.cpp to trusted users only, minimizing the risk of local exploitation. 2. Monitor system logs and application behavior for unusual crashes or memory errors related to audio processing components. 3. Employ application sandboxing or containerization to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 4. Implement strict privilege separation so that processes running whisper.cpp have minimal permissions. 5. Regularly check for vendor updates or patches and apply them immediately once available. 6. If patching is not yet possible, consider disabling or replacing the affected functionality temporarily. 7. Conduct internal code reviews or audits of the read_audio_data function to identify and mitigate unsafe memory handling. 8. Educate local users about the risks of executing untrusted code or commands on systems with whisper.cpp installed.