CVE-2025-14942 wolfSSL CVE debrief

Who should care

Defenders of systems using wolfSSH client applications, particularly those with version 1.4.21 and earlier, should assess exposure and prioritize updates or patches. wolfSSH server applications may also be affected, although no specific attacks on server applications have been reported.

Why it matters

CVE-2025-14942 is a critical vulnerability in wolfSSH that can lead to password exposure, authentication bypass, and other security issues in client applications. Defenders should prioritize updates or patches for wolfSSH version 1.4.21 and earlier, and assess exposure of wolfSSH server applications.

• Potential password exposure in client applications
• Possible authentication bypass in client applications
• Potential for bogus signatures in client applications
• Need for verification of wolfSSH version and exposure in client and server applications

Technical summary

The wolfSSH key exchange state machine can be manipulated to leak the client's password in the clear, trick the client to send a bogus signature, or trick the client into skipping user authentication. This affects client applications with wolfSSH version 1.4.21 and earlier. The vulnerability is critical, with a CVSS score of 9.4, and defenders should prioritize updates or patches for wolfSSH version 1.4.21 and earlier, and assess exposure of wolfSSH server applications. The fix involves updating wolfSSH, applying the fix patch, and updating credentials used.

Defensive priority

High

Recommended defensive actions

• Update wolfSSH to version 1.4.22 or later
• Apply the fix patch for wolfSSH
• Update credentials used with wolfSSH client applications
• Assess exposure of wolfSSH server applications and apply the fix patch if necessary
• Review compensating controls for exposed systems while remediation is scheduled and verified
• Check relevant monitoring, detection, and logs for exposed assets that need extra review
• Track exceptions, retest remediated assets, and close the item only after evidence is documented

Evidence notes

The CVE record and NVD entry provide details on the wolfSSH key exchange state machine manipulation vulnerability, affecting client applications with wolfSSH version 1.4.21 and earlier. The vulnerability allows for potential password exposure, authentication bypass, and other security issues. Defenders should verify the affected scope, severity, and vendor guidance. The official CVE Program record and NVD detail page offer source-provided CVE metadata and vulnerability assessment.

Sources and references

Methodology and review provenance

AI-assisted synthesis based on stored public vulnerability evidence. System validation, approval state, and publication status do not by themselves establish human review of this revision. PatchSiren helps prioritize defensive review and does not prove exposure or remediation on any system.