Heap-Based Buffer Under-Read in libxml2: CVE-2025-32415
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2025-32415: In libxml2 before 2.13.8 and 2.14.x before 2.14.2, xmlSchemaIDCFillNodeTables in xmlschemas.c has a heap-based buffer under-read. Affects libxml2 versions < 2.11.8-r3. Fixed in 2.11.8-r3. How to fix ↓
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Background
libxml2 is a widely used XML parsing library that provides tools for parsing, validating, and manipulating XML documents. It is known for its performance and compliance with XML standards. However, certain versions of libxml2 are vulnerable to a heap-based buffer under-read, which can lead to potential security risks when processing crafted XML documents.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-32415 arises from the function xmlSchemaIDCFillNodeTables in xmlschemas.c, which is present in libxml2 versions prior to 2.13.8 and 2.14.x before 2.14.2. This flaw allows an attacker to exploit a crafted XML document that is validated against an XML schema with specific identity constraints, or by using a crafted XML schema itself. The consequences of this vulnerability include potential information disclosure and application crashes, making it critical for users to address it promptly.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2.11.8-r3
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade libxml2Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, avoid processing untrusted XML documents or schemas until the library is updated. Implement strict validation checks on XML inputs to minimize the risk of exploitation.
Conclusion
CVE-2025-32415 represents a significant security risk for applications using vulnerable versions of libxml2. It is crucial for users to update to the patched versions to protect against potential exploitation. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help in monitoring and managing vulnerabilities effectively.
See every vulnerability recorded for libxml2 →
FAQ
CVE-2025-32415 is a vulnerability in libxml2 that allows for a heap-based buffer under-read, potentially leading to security issues when processing crafted XML documents.
Versions of libxml2 prior to 2.13.8 and 2.14.x before 2.14.2 are affected by this vulnerability.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Simply upload your manifest file like package-lock.json to check for vulnerabilities.
The CVSS score for CVE-2025-32415 is 7.5, indicating a high severity level.
If an immediate update is not possible, avoid processing untrusted XML documents and implement strict validation checks to minimize risk.
References
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