CVE-2025-33112: Local Arbitrary Code Execution Vulnerability in IBM AIX and VIOS Perl

Overview

A notable vulnerability, CVE-2025-33112, has been identified in the Perl implementation of IBM AIX 7.3 and IBM VIOS 4.1.1. This vulnerability exposes systems to potential compromise, allowing a non-privileged local user to execute arbitrary code due to improper neutralization of pathname input. Given the widespread usage of IBM AIX and VIOS in enterprise environments, this vulnerability could have far-reaching implications, potentially leading to system compromise or data leakage.

Vulnerability Summary

CVE ID: CVE-2025-33112
Severity: High (8.4 CVSS Score)
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: Low (Non-privileged local user)
User Interaction: Required
Impact: Execution of arbitrary code, potential system compromise or data leakage

Affected Products

Product | Affected Versions

IBM AIX | 7.3
IBM VIOS | 4.1.1

How the Exploit Works

The vulnerability lies in the improper neutralization of pathname input in the Perl implementation of the mentioned IBM products. A non-privileged local user can craft malicious input that exploits this flaw, leading to arbitrary code execution. The affected system could interpret this malicious input as commands, allowing the attacker to manipulate the system or access sensitive data.

Conceptual Example Code

Here is a conceptual example of how an attacker might exploit this vulnerability:

#!/usr/bin/perl
# Create a file with a malicious pathname
my $filename = "/path/to/vulnerable/component|arbitrary_code_here";
# Use the file
open(FILE, $filename) or die "Cannot open $filename: $!";

In this example, the attacker crafts a filename that includes arbitrary code after a pipe character. The Perl interpreter may execute this code when attempting to open the file, leading to arbitrary code execution.
Note: This is a simplified, conceptual example and may not directly work in real-world scenarios.

Recommendation for Mitigation

Users and administrators of affected IBM AIX and VIOS versions are recommended to apply the patch provided by the vendor as soon as possible. Until the patch can be applied, using Web Application Firewalls (WAF) or Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) may serve as temporary mitigation, helping to detect and prevent attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Regularly updating and patching your systems is a key part of maintaining a robust cybersecurity posture.