CVE-2025-64314 is a critical security vulnerability identified in Huawei's HarmonyOS version 5.1.0, classified under CWE-843 (Access of Resource Using Incompatible Type, commonly known as type confusion). This vulnerability arises from improper permission control within the memory management module, where the system incorrectly handles data types, leading to unauthorized access to resources. Type confusion vulnerabilities typically allow attackers to manipulate memory in unintended ways, potentially enabling privilege escalation, arbitrary code execution, or data leakage. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 9.3 reflects the vulnerability's severity, with an attack vector limited to local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), and no user interaction needed (UI:N). The scope is changed (S:C), indicating that exploitation can affect resources beyond the initially vulnerable component. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H), meaning a successful exploit could fully compromise the affected device. Although no public exploits are currently known, the vulnerability's nature and severity make it a critical concern. Huawei has not yet published patches, so organizations must prepare to deploy updates promptly upon release. The vulnerability specifically affects HarmonyOS 5.1.0, which is used primarily in Huawei's IoT devices, smartphones, and embedded systems. Given the local attack vector, attackers need some form of local access, which could be achieved via physical access or through other compromised local accounts or services. The vulnerability's exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data or system control, undermining device security and trustworthiness.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-64314 is significant, especially those relying on Huawei HarmonyOS devices in critical infrastructure, telecommunications, or IoT deployments. Successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, including data breaches, service disruptions, and potential lateral movement within networks. Confidentiality breaches could expose sensitive corporate or personal data, while integrity and availability impacts could disrupt business operations or critical services. The local attack vector means that insider threats or attackers who gain initial footholds on devices could escalate privileges and control. This risk is heightened in environments where Huawei devices are integrated into network management, industrial control systems, or communication infrastructure. The absence of patches increases exposure time, necessitating immediate compensating controls. Additionally, given geopolitical tensions and scrutiny around Huawei technology in Europe, this vulnerability could exacerbate concerns about supply chain security and trust in Huawei products.

1. Monitor Huawei's official security advisories closely and apply patches for HarmonyOS 5.1.0 immediately upon release. 2. Restrict physical and local access to devices running HarmonyOS, enforcing strict access controls and device usage policies. 3. Implement network segmentation to isolate Huawei devices from critical network segments to limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 4. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring unusual memory access patterns or privilege escalations on affected devices. 5. Conduct regular audits of device configurations and access logs to detect unauthorized access attempts. 6. Where possible, consider alternative devices or operating systems with a more mature security posture for critical deployments. 7. Educate staff about the risks of local access vulnerabilities and enforce strong authentication and device usage policies. 8. Engage with Huawei support channels to obtain guidance and early access to patches or mitigations. 9. Maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans tailored to potential device compromise scenarios.