CVE-2025-9175 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the 'make' function of the source file src/shc.c within the neurobin shc utility, versions up to 4.0.3. The shc tool is used to compile shell scripts into executable binaries, often employed to protect script source code or to distribute scripts in binary form. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of input data within the 'make' function, allowing an attacker to overwrite the stack memory. This can lead to arbitrary code execution or program crashes. Exploitation requires local access with at least low-level privileges (PR:L), and no user interaction is needed. The vulnerability has a CVSS 4.0 base score of 4.8, indicating medium severity, with an attack vector limited to local access, low complexity, and no privileges required beyond local user rights. The exploit is publicly available, increasing the risk of exploitation, although no known exploits in the wild have been reported yet. The vulnerability affects all versions from 4.0.0 through 4.0.3, and no patches or fixes have been linked yet. Given the local attack vector, exploitation typically requires an attacker to have some form of access to the target system, such as through compromised credentials or physical access. The impact includes potential privilege escalation or denial of service through application crashes, depending on how the shc binary is used within the environment.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-9175 depends largely on the deployment and usage of the neurobin shc tool. Organizations that rely on shc to protect or distribute shell scripts in critical infrastructure, development environments, or automation pipelines could face risks of local privilege escalation or disruption of services. Since exploitation requires local access, the threat is more significant in environments where multiple users have shell access or where attackers can gain initial foothold through other means. The availability of a public exploit increases the risk of lateral movement or privilege escalation within compromised networks. Confidentiality and integrity of systems could be compromised if attackers leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The medium CVSS score reflects moderate risk, but the presence of a public exploit means organizations should not delay mitigation. The vulnerability could also be leveraged in targeted attacks against organizations with sensitive automation or scripting workflows, potentially impacting sectors such as finance, manufacturing, or government services in Europe.

1. Immediate mitigation should focus on restricting local access to systems running vulnerable versions of neurobin shc. Limit shell access to trusted users only and enforce strong authentication mechanisms. 2. Monitor systems for unusual local activity or attempts to execute the shc tool with unexpected parameters. 3. Since no official patches are linked yet, organizations should consider applying temporary workarounds such as removing or restricting execution permissions on the vulnerable shc binaries where feasible. 4. Implement strict endpoint security controls to prevent unauthorized local access, including the use of endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions that can detect exploitation attempts. 5. Review and harden user privilege assignments to minimize the number of users with local privileges that could exploit this vulnerability. 6. Stay updated with vendor advisories for patches or updates addressing this vulnerability and plan prompt deployment once available. 7. Conduct internal audits to identify all instances of neurobin shc usage and assess exposure. 8. Employ application whitelisting to prevent execution of unauthorized or modified binaries that could exploit this vulnerability.