CVE-2025-26262 is a medium-severity vulnerability identified in the Linux Malware Detect (LMD) tool version 1.6.5, specifically within the component /internals/functions. This vulnerability allows an unauthenticated attacker to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code by supplying a file with a specially crafted filename. The root cause is related to improper handling of filenames, which likely leads to command injection or similar code execution vectors, as indicated by the CWE-77 classification (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command). The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.5, reflecting a network attack vector (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), and impacts on confidentiality and integrity but not availability. The vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction, making it easier to exploit remotely if the affected component processes untrusted files. However, no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patch links are provided yet. Linux Malware Detect is a widely used malware scanner for Linux systems, often deployed on servers to detect and mitigate malware threats. The vulnerability could allow attackers to gain unauthorized code execution on systems running LMD 1.6.5, potentially leading to further compromise of the host system.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk particularly to those relying on Linux Malware Detect for malware scanning and protection on their Linux servers. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code with escalated privileges, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data leakage, or manipulation of critical system files. This could disrupt business operations, compromise sensitive data, and facilitate lateral movement within networks. Given the network-exploitable nature and no requirement for authentication, attackers could target exposed systems remotely. Organizations in sectors with high Linux server usage such as finance, telecommunications, cloud service providers, and government agencies are at higher risk. The impact is exacerbated if the vulnerability is exploited in environments with sensitive or regulated data, potentially leading to compliance violations under GDPR and other European data protection laws.

European organizations should immediately audit their Linux systems to identify installations of Linux Malware Detect version 1.6.5. Until an official patch is released, organizations should consider the following mitigations: 1) Restrict network access to systems running LMD to trusted IPs only, minimizing exposure to untrusted sources. 2) Implement strict file upload and input validation controls to prevent attackers from supplying crafted filenames to the vulnerable component. 3) Monitor logs and system behavior for unusual activity indicative of exploitation attempts, such as unexpected command execution or privilege escalations. 4) Employ application whitelisting and mandatory access controls (e.g., SELinux, AppArmor) to limit the impact of potential code execution. 5) Keep Linux systems and security tools updated and subscribe to vendor advisories for timely patch deployment once available. 6) Consider temporarily disabling or isolating the vulnerable component if feasible until a fix is applied.