Moderate Vulnerability in OpenSSL: Out-of-Bounds Read & Write in RFC 3211 KEK Unwrap
Summary
ALSA-2025:21255: Moderate: openssl security update. Affects openssl versions < 1:3.5.1-4.el9_7. Fixed in 1:3.5.1-4.el9_7. How to fix ↓
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Background
OpenSSL is a widely-used toolkit that implements the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocols, along with a comprehensive general-purpose cryptography library. It plays a critical role in securing communications over networks. The affected version of OpenSSL is part of the AlmaLinux 9 ecosystem, which includes various packages such as openssl, openssl-devel, openssl-libs, and openssl-perl. This vulnerability can potentially compromise the integrity and confidentiality of data processed by applications relying on OpenSSL.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-9230 involves an out-of-bounds read and write in the RFC 3211 KEK Unwrap process. This flaw can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data or cause application crashes, posing a significant risk to systems utilizing affected versions of OpenSSL. The issue arises from improper handling of input data, allowing attackers to exploit the vulnerability and execute arbitrary code or manipulate data.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1:3.5.1-4.el9_7
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo dnf update opensslTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, if updating is not immediately possible, consider restricting access to applications utilizing the vulnerable OpenSSL version or implementing additional security measures such as firewalls to limit exposure. However, these are not substitutes for applying the patch.
Conclusion
The OpenSSL vulnerability CVE-2025-9230 poses a moderate risk due to out-of-bounds read and write issues. It is crucial for users of affected OpenSSL packages in the AlmaLinux 9 ecosystem to update to the patched version to ensure the security and integrity of their applications.
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FAQ
CVE-2025-9230 is a vulnerability in OpenSSL that allows for out-of-bounds read and write operations, potentially leading to unauthorized data access or application crashes.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By uploading your manifest file like package-lock.json to Vulert, you can check for vulnerabilities without needing to access the code.
Failing to address this vulnerability can result in data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and potential system instability.
Yes, you can restrict access to applications using the vulnerable OpenSSL version and implement additional security measures, although these are not substitutes for patching.
For detailed information, including the CVSS score and acknowledgments, refer to the CVE page associated with CVE-2025-9230.
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