CVE-2025-35003
CVE-2025-35003
CVSS Vector
v3.1- Attack Vector
- Network
- Attack Complexity
- Low
- Privileges Required
- None
- User Interaction
- None
- Scope
- Unchanged
- Confidentiality
- High
- Integrity
- High
- Availability
- High
Description
Improper Restriction of Operations within the Bounds of a Memory Buffer and Stack-based Buffer Overflow vulnerabilities were discovered in Apache NuttX RTOS Bluetooth Stack (HCI and UART components) that may result in system crash, denial of service, or arbitrary code execution, after receiving maliciously crafted packets. NuttX's Bluetooth HCI/UART stack users are advised to upgrade to version 12.9.0, which fixes the identified implementation issues. This issue affects Apache NuttX: from 7.25 before 12.9.0.
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of CVE-2025-35003
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
CVE ID: CVE-2025-35003
Description: The vulnerability involves improper restriction of operations within the bounds of a memory buffer and a stack-based buffer overflow in the Apache NuttX RTOS Bluetooth Stack, specifically in the HCI (Host Controller Interface) and UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter) components. This can lead to system crashes, denial of service (DoS), or arbitrary code execution upon receiving maliciously crafted packets.
CVSS Score: 9.8
Severity Evaluation: A CVSS score of 9.8 indicates a critical vulnerability. The high score is due to the potential for remote code execution, which can have severe impacts on system integrity, availability, and confidentiality.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
Attack Vectors:
- Network-Based Attacks: An attacker can send specially crafted Bluetooth packets to the vulnerable Bluetooth stack, exploiting the buffer overflow vulnerability.
- Proximity-Based Attacks: Given the nature of Bluetooth, an attacker needs to be within the Bluetooth range to exploit this vulnerability.
Exploitation Methods:
- Buffer Overflow: By sending maliciously crafted packets, an attacker can overflow the buffer, leading to arbitrary code execution.
- Denial of Service: Crafted packets can cause the system to crash or become unresponsive, leading to a DoS condition.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
Affected Software:
- Apache NuttX RTOS Bluetooth Stack
- Versions: From 7.25 before 12.9.0
Affected Components:
- HCI (Host Controller Interface)
- UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter)
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
Immediate Mitigation:
- Upgrade: Users are strongly advised to upgrade to Apache NuttX version 12.9.0, which includes patches for the identified vulnerabilities.
- Network Segmentation: Isolate Bluetooth-enabled devices from critical networks to limit the potential impact of an attack.
- Monitoring: Implement continuous monitoring for unusual Bluetooth traffic patterns.
Long-Term Mitigation:
- Regular Updates: Ensure that all systems are regularly updated with the latest security patches.
- Security Audits: Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments of Bluetooth-enabled devices.
- Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Deploy IDS to detect and respond to suspicious Bluetooth activities.
5. Impact on Cybersecurity Landscape
Immediate Impact:
- System Integrity: Compromised systems can be used to execute arbitrary code, leading to data breaches and unauthorized access.
- Availability: DoS attacks can disrupt critical services, affecting business operations.
Long-Term Impact:
- Increased Awareness: This vulnerability highlights the importance of securing IoT and embedded systems, which are increasingly targeted by attackers.
- Enhanced Security Measures: Organizations may adopt more stringent security measures for Bluetooth-enabled devices, including regular updates and continuous monitoring.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
Vulnerability Details:
- Improper Restriction of Operations within the Bounds of a Memory Buffer: This occurs when the software does not properly restrict operations within the bounds of a memory buffer, leading to buffer overflows.
- Stack-based Buffer Overflow: This type of overflow occurs when a program writes more data to a buffer located on the stack than what is actually allocated for that buffer.
Exploitation:
- Crafted Packets: An attacker can craft Bluetooth packets that, when processed by the vulnerable HCI/UART components, cause a buffer overflow.
- Code Execution: The overflow can be exploited to inject and execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to full system compromise.
Detection:
- Anomaly Detection: Monitor for unusual Bluetooth traffic patterns and unexpected system crashes.
- Log Analysis: Analyze system logs for any indications of buffer overflow errors or unexpected behavior in the Bluetooth stack.
References:
By addressing this vulnerability promptly and implementing robust security measures, organizations can mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2025-35003 and enhance the overall security posture of their Bluetooth-enabled systems.