CVE-2025-54645 is a medium-severity vulnerability identified in Huawei's HarmonyOS versions 5.0.1 and 5.1.0. The issue stems from improper validation of array indices (CWE-129) within the location service module of the operating system. Specifically, the vulnerability arises due to insufficient verification of input data that is used as an index to access arrays, leading to potential out-of-bounds array access. This type of flaw can cause unexpected behavior such as memory corruption or crashes. According to the CVSS 3.1 vector (CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N), the vulnerability requires local access (AV:L), has low attack complexity (AC:L), does not require privileges (PR:N), but does require user interaction (UI:R). The scope is changed (S:C), meaning the vulnerability can affect components beyond the initially vulnerable module. The impact on confidentiality and integrity is low, and availability impact is not indicated as affected (A:N). No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability could potentially be exploited by a local attacker who can trick a user into interacting with malicious content or input, causing the location service module to access invalid memory locations. This could lead to denial of service or instability in the affected device's location services, impacting availability indirectly. The vulnerability is specific to Huawei's HarmonyOS, which is used primarily in Huawei devices such as smartphones, tablets, and IoT devices.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-54645 depends largely on the extent of HarmonyOS device usage within their infrastructure or by their employees. Since HarmonyOS is primarily deployed on Huawei consumer devices and IoT products, enterprises using Huawei hardware for mobile or IoT purposes may face risks of service disruption or denial of service in location-based services. This could affect operational continuity, especially in sectors relying on precise location data such as logistics, transportation, or smart building management. Although the vulnerability does not directly compromise confidentiality or integrity, the potential for denial of service could disrupt critical workflows. Additionally, the changed scope (S:C) indicates that exploitation might affect other system components, potentially increasing the risk surface. Given the requirement for local access and user interaction, remote exploitation is unlikely without physical or local network access, somewhat limiting the threat to organizations with strict device control policies. However, in environments with BYOD policies or less controlled device usage, the risk is higher. The absence of known exploits suggests a window of opportunity for organizations to implement mitigations before active attacks emerge.

To mitigate CVE-2025-54645, European organizations should take the following specific actions: 1) Inventory and identify all Huawei devices running HarmonyOS versions 5.0.1 or 5.1.0 within their environment, including mobile and IoT devices. 2) Restrict local access to these devices, enforcing strict physical security and limiting user permissions to reduce the risk of local exploitation. 3) Educate users about the risks of interacting with untrusted content or applications that could trigger the vulnerability, emphasizing caution with location service prompts or inputs. 4) Monitor Huawei's official channels for patches or firmware updates addressing this vulnerability and prioritize timely deployment once available. 5) Implement network segmentation to isolate IoT devices running HarmonyOS from critical infrastructure to contain potential denial of service impacts. 6) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of detecting abnormal behavior or crashes related to location services on affected devices. 7) Consider alternative devices or operating systems for critical applications where feasible to reduce exposure. These targeted measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on device-specific controls, user awareness, and proactive patch management tailored to the nature of this vulnerability.