CVE-2025-47276 in Actualizer
Summary
by MITRE • 05/13/2025
Actualizer is a single shell script solution to allow developers and embedded engineers to create Debian operating systems (OS). Prior to version 1.2.0, Actualizer uses OpenSSL's "-passwd" function, which uses SHA512 instead of a more suitable password hasher like Yescript/Argon2i. All Actualizer users building a full Debian Operating System are affected. Users should upgrade to version 1.2.0 of Actualizer. Existing OS deployment requires manual password changes against the alpha and root accounts. The change will deploy's Debian's yescript overriding the older SHA512 hash created by OpenSSL. As a workaround, users need to reset both `root` and "Alpha" users' passwords.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/13/2025
CVE-2025-47276 represents a cryptographic weakness in the Actualizer tool that affects the security posture of Debian OS deployments. This vulnerability stems from the tool's reliance on OpenSSL's "-passwd" function for password hashing, which employs SHA512 as its hashing algorithm. The issue is particularly concerning because SHA512, while cryptographically sound for hashing, lacks the computational complexity and resistance to brute force attacks that modern password security demands. The vulnerability falls under CWE-327, which addresses the use of weak cryptographic algorithms, and specifically relates to the improper implementation of password hashing mechanisms. The actualizer tool's approach to password management creates a significant security risk for all users who build Debian operating systems through this method, as the SHA512 hashes can be more easily cracked through modern computational resources and rainbow table attacks.
The technical flaw manifests in the password generation process where Actualizer fails to implement a modern password hashing algorithm capable of withstanding contemporary attack vectors. This design choice exposes the system to several attack surfaces including credential stuffing, brute force attempts, and offline password cracking operations. The vulnerability impacts the root account and an "Alpha" user account, both of which are critical system components that require robust authentication mechanisms. According to ATT&CK framework's T1110 technique for credential access, this weakness directly enables adversaries to potentially compromise system access through password-based attacks. The implementation of SHA512 instead of more secure alternatives like Argon2i or bcrypt creates an attack surface that can be exploited by threat actors with sufficient computational resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple password security concerns to encompass the integrity and confidentiality of entire Debian operating system deployments. Users who have built systems using affected versions of Actualizer face potential unauthorized access to their systems, particularly when the root account credentials are compromised. The vulnerability affects all users who have utilized Actualizer versions prior to 1.2.0, making it a widespread concern across the user base. The deployment of the updated version requires manual intervention to reset passwords for both root and Alpha accounts, indicating that the vulnerability creates a persistent risk that cannot be resolved through simple patching. This remediation process introduces operational overhead and potential service disruption, while also highlighting the importance of proper password management in embedded and developer environments.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves upgrading to Actualizer version 1.2.0, which implements the Yescript password hashing algorithm that provides significantly better resistance to brute force attacks. This upgrade addresses the core cryptographic weakness by replacing SHA512 with a more appropriate hashing mechanism that includes computational cost parameters to slow down password cracking attempts. The updated version also incorporates Debian's native Yescript implementation, which provides better integration with the operating system's security framework. Organizations should implement a comprehensive password reset procedure for all affected systems, ensuring that both root and Alpha accounts receive new, strong passwords. Additionally, system administrators should conduct security audits to verify that no legacy SHA512 hashes remain in the system configuration, as these could still pose risks. The vulnerability underscores the importance of following security best practices in password management and highlights the need for continuous security assessment of development tools used in system deployment processes.