CVE-2025-54878: Heap Buffer Overflow in NASA CryptoLib 1.4.0 `Crypto_TC_Check_IV_Setup`

Published Aug 11, 2025
·
Updated

CryptoLib provides a software-only solution using the CCSDS Space Data Link Security Protocol - Extended Procedures (SDLS-EP) to secure communications between a spacecraft running the core Flight System (cFS) and a ground station. A heap buffer overflow vulnerability exists in NASA CryptoLib version 1.4.0 and prior in the IV setup logic for telecommand frames. The problem arises from missing bounds checks when copying the Initialization Vector (IV) into a freshly allocated buffer. An attacker can supply a crafted TC frame that causes the library to write one byte past the end of the heap buffer, leading to heap corruption and undefined behaviour. An attacker supplying a malformed telecommand frame can corrupt heap memory. This leads to undefined behaviour, which could manifest itself as a crash (denial of service) or more severe exploitation. This issue has been patched in version 1.4.0.

Affected Software

2 affected components
nasa CryptoLib<1.4.0
nasa CryptoLib<1.4.1

Event History

Aug 11, 2025
CVE Published
via MITRE·08:40 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·08:40 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness
Data Sourced
via NVD·09:15 PM
RemedyDescriptionSeverityWeaknessAffected Software
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Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2025-54878?

The severity of CVE-2025-54878 is classified as high due to its potential to allow remote code execution through a heap buffer overflow.

2

How do I fix CVE-2025-54878?

To fix CVE-2025-54878, upgrade to version 1.4.0 or later of NASA CryptoLib where the vulnerability has been addressed.

3

Which versions of CryptoLib are affected by CVE-2025-54878?

Versions prior to 1.4.0 of NASA CryptoLib are affected by CVE-2025-54878.

4

What systems are impacted by CVE-2025-54878?

CVE-2025-54878 impacts systems using NASA CryptoLib for secure communications in spacecraft and ground station interactions.

5

Is there a known exploit for CVE-2025-54878?

As of the latest information, there are no public exploits for CVE-2025-54878, but its high severity indicates potential risk.

Contact

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CVE-2025-54878 - Heap Buffer Overflow in NASA CryptoLib 1.4.0 `Crypto_TC_Check_IV_Setup` - SecAlerts