Integer Overflow Vulnerability in GRUB2 Package Leading to Potential Code Execution
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2025-1125: When reading data from a hfs filesystem, grub's hfs filesystem module uses user-controlled parameters from the filesystem metadata to calculate the internal buffers size, however it misses to properly check for integer o... Affects grub2 versions < 2.12-6. Fixed in 2.12-6. How to fix ↓
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Background
GRUB2 (GRand Unified Bootloader 2) is a widely used bootloader for various operating systems, including Linux. It is responsible for loading the operating system kernel and managing the boot process. GRUB2 supports multiple filesystems, including HFS, which is used by macOS. The package is crucial for system startup and recovery, making its security paramount. This vulnerability specifically affects the HFS filesystem module within GRUB2, where improper handling of user-controlled parameters can lead to severe security risks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises when the GRUB2 HFS filesystem module reads data from a filesystem. It uses user-controlled parameters from the filesystem metadata to calculate internal buffer sizes but fails to adequately check for integer overflows. A maliciously crafted filesystem can exploit this flaw, leading to buffer size calculations that overflow. Consequently, this may result in a grub_malloc() operation requesting a smaller size than intended, allowing the hfsplus_open_compressed_real() function to write beyond the internal buffer's length. This flaw can corrupt GRUB's critical internal data and potentially allow arbitrary code execution, bypassing secure boot protections.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2.12-6
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade grub2Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
Currently, there are no specific workarounds mentioned for this vulnerability. However, users are advised to avoid using untrusted HFS filesystems until the package is updated.
Conclusion
The integer overflow vulnerability in the GRUB2 package poses a significant risk, allowing for potential arbitrary code execution. Users are strongly encouraged to update to the patched version 2.12-6 to mitigate this risk. Regular monitoring and prompt updates are essential for maintaining system security.
See every vulnerability recorded for grub2 →
FAQ
The vulnerability can lead to arbitrary code execution, allowing attackers to bypass secure boot protections and potentially compromise the system.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any signup.
While there are no specific workarounds, it is advisable to avoid using untrusted HFS filesystems until the package is updated.
Yes, the vulnerability affects GRUB2 versions prior to 2.12-6. Updating to this version or later will mitigate the risk.
You can visit the official Debian security advisories or the GRUB2 project page for more detailed information on vulnerabilities and updates.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for grub2.
