Critical Vulnerability in Linux Kernel: NFS over TLS Security Flaw
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2025-38566: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: sunrpc: fix handling of server side tls alerts Scott Mayhew discovered a security exploit in NFS over TLS in tls_alert_recv() due to its assumption it c... Affects linux versions < 6.12.43-1. Fixed in 6.12.43-1. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
The Linux kernel is the core component of many operating systems, including Debian. It manages system resources and hardware interactions, providing essential services for software applications. This vulnerability affects the handling of TLS alerts in NFS over TLS, which could lead to security exploits if not addressed.
Vulnerability Detail
In the Linux kernel, a vulnerability was discovered in the handling of server-side TLS alerts within the NFS over TLS implementation. The issue arises in the tls_alert_recv() function, where the assumption that data can be read from the message iterator's kvec leads to improper processing of control messages. This flaw could allow an attacker to exploit the system by sending malformed TLS alerts, potentially compromising the integrity and confidentiality of data transmitted over the network.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
6.12.43-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade linuxTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
Currently, no specific workarounds are provided for this vulnerability. It is advisable to apply the patch as soon as it becomes available to mitigate potential risks.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in the Linux kernel regarding NFS over TLS poses significant security risks. It is essential for users to update their systems to the patched versions to safeguard against potential exploits. Monitoring tools like Vulert can assist in identifying vulnerabilities in real-time.
See every vulnerability recorded for linux →
FAQ
The vulnerability involves improper handling of TLS alerts in NFS over TLS, which could lead to security exploits.
Debian 13 and Debian 14 are affected, specifically versions prior to 6.12.43-1 and 6.16.3-1 respectively.
You can use tools like Vulert to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit Vulert Scanner to check your application without needing to sign up.
While no specific workarounds are available, it is crucial to monitor the situation and apply the patch as soon as possible.
Detailed information can be found in the Debian CVE database at https://storage.googleapis.com/debian-osv/debian-cve-osv/DEBIAN-CVE-2025-38566.json.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for linux.
