CVE-2025-7067 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the HDF5 library version 1.14.6, specifically within the function H5FS__sinfo_serialize_node_cb located in the source file src/H5FScache.c. HDF5 is a widely used data model, library, and file format for storing and managing large amounts of data, commonly employed in scientific computing, engineering, and data-intensive applications. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of data serialization in the file space management cache, leading to a heap buffer overflow when processing certain inputs. Exploiting this flaw requires local access with at least low-level privileges (local access with low privileges), and no user interaction is necessary. The vulnerability does not require elevated privileges beyond local access, nor does it impact confidentiality, integrity, or availability directly beyond the potential for memory corruption. The CVSS v4.0 base score is 4.8, indicating a medium severity level. Although the exploit has been publicly disclosed, there are currently no known exploits in the wild. No official patches or mitigation links have been provided yet, so affected users must monitor vendor updates closely. The vulnerability's exploitation could lead to application crashes or potentially arbitrary code execution if combined with other vulnerabilities or conditions, but this is not explicitly confirmed. The scope is limited to systems running HDF5 version 1.14.6, and the attack vector is local, limiting remote exploitation possibilities.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-7067 depends largely on the extent to which they rely on HDF5 1.14.6 in their operational environments. HDF5 is prevalent in research institutions, scientific computing centers, engineering firms, and industries handling large datasets such as aerospace, automotive, and pharmaceuticals. A successful exploitation could lead to denial of service through application crashes or, in worst cases, local privilege escalation or arbitrary code execution if combined with other vulnerabilities. This could disrupt critical data processing workflows, compromise data integrity, or enable lateral movement within internal networks. Since exploitation requires local access, the threat is more significant in environments where multiple users share systems or where attackers can gain initial footholds via other means (e.g., phishing, insider threats). The medium severity score reflects moderate risk, but the public disclosure of the exploit increases urgency for mitigation. European organizations with high-value scientific or industrial data should prioritize addressing this vulnerability to prevent potential operational disruptions or security breaches.

Given the local access requirement and the absence of official patches at this time, European organizations should implement the following specific mitigations: 1) Restrict and monitor local access to systems running HDF5 1.14.6, enforcing strict user account controls and minimizing the number of users with access to vulnerable systems. 2) Employ application whitelisting and behavior monitoring to detect anomalous activities related to HDF5 processes, such as unexpected crashes or memory corruption indicators. 3) Isolate critical systems using network segmentation to limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 4) Regularly audit installed software versions and configurations to identify and inventory vulnerable HDF5 instances. 5) Prepare for rapid patch deployment by establishing communication channels with HDF5 maintainers or vendors for timely updates. 6) Where feasible, consider upgrading to a later, unaffected version of HDF5 once available or applying any vendor-provided workarounds. 7) Educate local users about the risks of executing untrusted code or files that interact with HDF5 libraries to reduce the likelihood of exploitation. These targeted measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on access control, monitoring, and preparation specific to the nature of this vulnerability.