Overview
A high-severity vulnerability, identified as CVE-2025-33189, has been discovered in the SROOT firmware of NVIDIA DGX Spark GB10 systems. This vulnerability allows a potential attacker to perform an out-of-bounds write, potentially leading to severe consequences including code execution, data tampering, denial of service, information disclosure, or even privilege escalation. This article provides a detailed overview of the vulnerability, its potential impact, and recommended mitigation steps.
Technical Details
CVE-2025-33189 stems from an insecure handling of data within the SROOT firmware of NVIDIA DGX Spark GB10. The out-of-bounds write vulnerability occurs due to insufficient bounds checking when processing specific data inputs. An attacker who can influence these data inputs can overwrite memory outside of the intended buffer, causing unpredictable and potentially malicious behavior. The specific location in the firmware and the exact conditions required for exploitation are detailed in NVIDIA’s advisory.
CVSS Analysis
The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) assigns CVE-2025-33189 a score of 7.8, categorizing it as a HIGH severity vulnerability. This score reflects the potential for significant impact and the relative ease of exploitation. A CVSS score of 7.8 typically indicates that the vulnerability is remotely exploitable and does not require significant user interaction.
Possible Impact
Successful exploitation of CVE-2025-33189 could result in the following:
- Code Execution: An attacker could potentially execute arbitrary code on the affected system.
- Data Tampering: Critical data could be modified or corrupted, leading to system instability or incorrect results.
- Denial of Service (DoS): The system could be rendered unusable, disrupting critical operations.
- Information Disclosure: Sensitive information stored on the system could be exposed to unauthorized individuals.
- Escalation of Privileges: An attacker could gain elevated privileges, allowing them to perform administrative tasks or access restricted resources.
The specific impact will depend on the attacker’s objectives and the configuration of the affected system. Given the potential for remote exploitation and the severity of the potential consequences, immediate action is recommended.
Mitigation or Patch Steps
NVIDIA has released a security bulletin addressing this vulnerability. The recommended mitigation is to update the SROOT firmware to the latest version provided by NVIDIA.
- Identify Affected Systems: Determine which NVIDIA DGX Spark GB10 systems are running the vulnerable firmware version.
- Download the Patch: Download the appropriate firmware update from the NVIDIA Customer Support portal. Refer to NVIDIA’s advisory for the correct version.
- Apply the Patch: Follow NVIDIA’s instructions for applying the firmware update. Ensure that the update process is completed successfully.
- Verify the Update: After applying the patch, verify that the SROOT firmware has been updated to the patched version.
- Monitor Systems: Continuously monitor affected systems for any signs of compromise.
It is crucial to apply the patch as soon as possible to minimize the risk of exploitation.
References
- NIST NVD: https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2025-33189
- NVIDIA Security Bulletin: https://nvidia.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/5720
- CVE Record: https://www.cve.org/CVERecord?id=CVE-2025-33189
