CVE-2025-37975 is a vulnerability identified in the Linux kernel specifically related to the RISC-V architecture module handling of relocation entries. The issue arises from an out-of-bounds access in the relocation section of the kernel module loader. The vulnerability is due to the code allowing the relocation array index 'rel[j]' to access one element beyond the valid range of the relocation section. This improper boundary check can lead to reading or potentially writing memory outside the intended buffer, which may cause undefined behavior including kernel crashes or memory corruption. The fix involved simplifying the indexing logic to use 'num_relocations', which correctly represents the size of the relocation section, thereby preventing out-of-bounds access. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability affects the Linux kernel versions identified by the specific commit hashes provided, which correspond to certain builds prior to the patch. The vulnerability is specific to the RISC-V architecture support in the Linux kernel, which is an emerging architecture gaining traction in various sectors. Since the Linux kernel is widely used across servers, embedded devices, and desktops, this vulnerability could have implications for systems running RISC-V based Linux kernels if left unpatched.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-37975 depends largely on the adoption of RISC-V based Linux systems. While RISC-V is not yet as widespread as x86 or ARM architectures, its growing use in embedded systems, IoT devices, and specialized computing platforms means that organizations utilizing these technologies could face risks. Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to kernel crashes causing denial of service or potentially enable attackers to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges if combined with other vulnerabilities, thus compromising system integrity and confidentiality. Critical infrastructure sectors, research institutions, and technology companies experimenting with or deploying RISC-V hardware in Europe could be particularly affected. The vulnerability could disrupt services, lead to data breaches, or allow attackers to establish persistent footholds in affected systems. Given the kernel-level nature of the flaw, successful exploitation could have severe consequences for system stability and security.

European organizations should prioritize updating their Linux kernels to versions that include the patch for CVE-2025-37975, especially on RISC-V based systems. Since the vulnerability is due to out-of-bounds memory access in the module loader, applying the official kernel patch or upgrading to a kernel version released after the fix is essential. Organizations should audit their infrastructure to identify any RISC-V Linux deployments, including embedded devices and development platforms. For environments where immediate patching is not feasible, implementing strict access controls to limit untrusted code execution and monitoring kernel logs for unusual module loading behavior can help reduce risk. Additionally, organizations should engage with their hardware and software vendors to confirm the availability of patched firmware or kernel updates. Employing kernel hardening techniques such as Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR) and enabling security modules like SELinux or AppArmor can provide additional layers of defense. Finally, maintaining robust incident detection capabilities to identify potential exploitation attempts is recommended.