CVE-2025-12638 — HIGH (8.0)

Vulnerability Description

Keras version 3.11.3 is affected by a path traversal vulnerability in the keras.utils.get_file() function when extracting tar archives. The vulnerability arises because the function uses Python's tarfile.extractall() method without the security-critical filter='data' parameter. Although Keras attempts to filter unsafe paths using filter_safe_paths(), this filtering occurs before extraction, and a PATH_MAX symlink resolution bug triggers during extraction. This bug causes symlink resolution to fail due to path length limits, resulting in a security bypass that allows files to be written outside the intended extraction directory. This can lead to arbitrary file writes outside the cache directory, enabling potential system compromise or malicious code execution. The vulnerability affects Keras installations that process tar archives with get_file() and does not affect versions where this extraction method is secured with the appropriate filter parameter.

CVSS Score

8.0

HIGH

CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

Attack Vector

NETWORK

Attack Complexity

LOW

Privileges Required

LOW

User Interaction

REQUIRED

Scope

UNCHANGED

Confidentiality

HIGH

Integrity

HIGH

Availability

HIGH

Related Weaknesses (CWE)

CWE-22

References

https://huntr.com/bounties/f94f5beb-54d8-4e6a-8bac-86d9aee103f4

FAQ

What is CVE-2025-12638?

CVE-2025-12638 is a vulnerability with a CVSS score of 8.0 (HIGH). Keras version 3.11.3 is affected by a path traversal vulnerability in the keras.utils.get_file() function when extracting tar archives. The vulnerability arises because the function uses Python's tarf...

How severe is CVE-2025-12638?

CVE-2025-12638 has been rated HIGH with a CVSS base score of 8.0/10. Review the CVSS metrics above for detailed severity breakdown.

Is there a patch for CVE-2025-12638?

Check the references section above for vendor advisories and patch information. Review vendor security bulletins for remediation guidance.