This vulnerability allows an attacker with physical access to a computer to exploit a stack-buffer-overflow condition during the GET RESPONSE operation in OpenSC. The vulnerability impacts all versions prior to 0.27.0, which has been patched. The CVSS score of 3.8 indicates a low severity, yet the potential for exploitation should not be overlooked, particularly in environments where physical security cannot be guaranteed.
Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive operations due to the requirement of physical access to the device. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability.
Currently, there is no known public exploit for this vulnerability. However, the physical access requirement means that organizations must ensure robust physical security measures are in place to deter potential attackers.
Given the nature of the vulnerability, organizations should address this issue in their priority patch cycle to avoid potential exploitation.
Vulnerability Details
The OpenSC vulnerability (CVE-2025-49010) has a CVSS score of 3.8, indicating a low severity level. It is classified as a stack-buffer overflow and affects the OpenSC open-source project, specifically versions prior to 0.27.0. The vulnerability is rooted in how the application handles responses to APDUs when a crafted USB device or smart card is used.
This issue has been patched in version 0.27.0, but prior versions remain vulnerable. The CWE classification for this vulnerability is CWE-121, indicating a stack-based buffer overflow.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of input data, which can lead to a stack-buffer overflow. The attack vector is physical, requiring the attacker to have direct access to the device. The attack complexity is considered high due to the need for specific conditions to be met, such as the use of a crafted USB device or smart card.
Privileges required for exploitation are none, but user interaction is required, as the user must be using the token at the time of the attack. The impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability are all low, but successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized actions being performed on the device.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations using OpenSC should be aware of the potential risks associated with this vulnerability. Given that physical access is required for exploitation, the primary concern lies in environments where devices are accessible to unauthorized individuals. The blast radius of this vulnerability is limited to systems utilizing the affected versions of OpenSC.
The urgency for remediation is assessed as low, considering the low CVSS score and the physical access requirement. However, organizations should still consider integrating this vulnerability into their risk management and remediation plans to prevent unauthorized access.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions of OpenSC prior to 0.27.0 are affected by this vulnerability. Organizations should ensure they upgrade to version 0.27.0 or later to mitigate the risk.
Mitigation & Remediation
To remediate this vulnerability, organizations should promptly upgrade to OpenSC version 0.27.0 or later. If immediate upgrading is not feasible, organizations should implement stricter physical access controls to prevent unauthorized access to the affected systems.
Organizations can benefit from consulting a penetration testing service to identify any additional security weaknesses.
Detection Guidance
Monitor logs for unusual access patterns or attempts to connect unauthorized USB devices. Pay attention to behavioral anomalies that may indicate attempts at exploitation. Additionally, ensure that physical access controls are reviewed regularly to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive systems.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2025-49010 highlights the importance of physical security in the context of cybersecurity. This vulnerability represents a critical reminder that even low-severity vulnerabilities can have severe implications if proper physical security measures are not enforced.
Security teams should consider this vulnerability as part of their overall risk assessment strategies. The lessons learned from this incident stress the need for comprehensive risk management frameworks that encompass not only digital threats but also physical vulnerabilities.
For further insights on enhancing security measures, organizations may refer to additional resources on penetration testing methodology and the importance of a robust vulnerability management program in securing their infrastructure.
Finally, organizations should remain vigilant in monitoring their systems for any emerging threats that could exploit similar vulnerabilities. Continuous security assessments are essential in maintaining a secure environment.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
.webp)