CVE-2025-54647 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability identified in the SSAP module of the NearLink protocol stack within Huawei's HarmonyOS version 5.1.0. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-125, which involves reading memory outside the intended buffer boundaries. This type of flaw can lead to unintended disclosure of memory contents or cause application instability. Specifically, the issue resides in the handling of data within the NearLink protocol stack's SSAP module, which is responsible for session management and data transmission over short-range wireless communication. Exploitation does not require authentication or user interaction, and the attack vector is adjacent network (AV:A), meaning the attacker must be within the same or a logically adjacent network segment to launch the attack. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.4 (medium severity), reflecting limited confidentiality impact (partial information disclosure), no integrity impact, and limited availability impact (potential service disruption). The vulnerability's exploitation could lead to denial of service conditions by causing the affected module or device to crash or become unresponsive. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been published yet. Given the nature of the vulnerability, it primarily threatens the availability of devices running HarmonyOS 5.1.0 that utilize the NearLink protocol stack, which is Huawei's proprietary short-range communication technology similar to Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Direct. This vulnerability could be leveraged by attackers in close proximity to the target device to disrupt its normal operation, potentially affecting IoT devices, smartphones, or other embedded systems running HarmonyOS that rely on NearLink for connectivity.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-54647 depends on the extent of HarmonyOS adoption within their operational environment. Huawei devices running HarmonyOS, including smartphones, IoT devices, and embedded systems, are increasingly present in various sectors such as telecommunications, manufacturing, and smart city infrastructure. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could cause denial of service conditions, leading to temporary loss of availability of critical devices or services relying on NearLink communications. This could disrupt business operations, especially in environments where real-time data exchange or device coordination is essential. Although the confidentiality and integrity impacts are minimal, availability disruptions could affect operational technology systems, smart building controls, or communication endpoints. Additionally, organizations involved in supply chains or partnerships with Huawei technology providers may face indirect risks. The requirement for adjacent network access limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk in densely populated or shared network environments. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate threat but underscores the need for proactive mitigation to prevent future attacks.

1. Network Segmentation: Isolate Huawei HarmonyOS devices using NearLink protocol on separate network segments to limit attacker proximity and reduce exposure to adjacent network attacks. 2. Monitor Network Traffic: Implement monitoring for anomalous NearLink protocol activity or unexpected session requests that could indicate exploitation attempts. 3. Device Inventory and Patch Management: Maintain an accurate inventory of devices running HarmonyOS 5.1.0 and apply security updates promptly once Huawei releases patches addressing CVE-2025-54647. 4. Disable NearLink if Unused: Where feasible, disable the NearLink protocol on devices that do not require it to eliminate the attack surface. 5. Access Controls: Enforce strict physical and logical access controls to prevent unauthorized users from gaining proximity or network access to vulnerable devices. 6. Incident Response Preparedness: Develop and test incident response plans to quickly identify and mitigate denial of service events potentially caused by this vulnerability. 7. Vendor Engagement: Engage with Huawei for timely updates and guidance on vulnerability remediation and best practices specific to HarmonyOS and NearLink.