CVE-2023-46045 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability in Graphviz, a widely used open-source graph visualization software. The flaw exists in versions from 2.36.0 up to but not including 10.0.1 and is triggered by processing a maliciously crafted config6a file. This file format is used for configuration purposes and is typically owned by the root user, which limits the ease of exploitation. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-125 (Out-of-bounds Read), meaning that the software reads memory outside the intended buffer boundaries, potentially leading to information disclosure, application crashes, or other undefined behavior. The CVSS v3.1 score is 7.8 (high), reflecting the significant impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability if exploited. The attack vector is local (AV:L), requiring low privileges (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but user interaction is needed (UI:R), indicating that an attacker must trick a user or process into opening the crafted config6a file. The vulnerability scope is unchanged (S:U), meaning it affects only the vulnerable component. Although no known exploits are reported in the wild, the potential for serious impact exists, especially in environments where Graphviz is used in automated workflows or by privileged users. The lack of patch links suggests that users should upgrade to version 10.0.1 or later once available or apply vendor-provided fixes. The vulnerability's uncommon exploitability is due to the typical ownership and access restrictions on the config6a file, but insider threats or compromised local accounts could leverage this flaw.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2023-46045 can be significant in environments where Graphviz is used for automated graph generation, visualization in development pipelines, or embedded in larger software systems. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information, corruption of data integrity, or denial of service through application crashes. Organizations in sectors such as finance, telecommunications, research, and critical infrastructure that rely on Graphviz for data visualization or analysis may face operational disruptions. The local attack vector limits remote exploitation, but insider threats or attackers with local access could leverage this vulnerability. Given the high CVSS score, the vulnerability poses a serious risk if not mitigated, especially in multi-user systems or shared environments common in European enterprises.

1. Upgrade Graphviz to version 10.0.1 or later as soon as the patch is available to eliminate the vulnerability. 2. Restrict access permissions on config6a files to root or trusted administrators only, preventing unauthorized users from reading or modifying these files. 3. Implement strict local user access controls and monitoring to detect suspicious activity related to config6a file access or manipulation. 4. Employ application whitelisting and integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized changes to Graphviz binaries or configuration files. 5. Educate users and administrators about the risks of opening untrusted configuration files and enforce policies to avoid processing files from unverified sources. 6. In environments where upgrading is delayed, consider isolating Graphviz usage to minimal privilege containers or virtual machines to limit potential impact. 7. Regularly audit systems for outdated Graphviz versions and configuration file permissions to ensure compliance with security policies.