CVE-2025-46399 identifies a NULL pointer dereference vulnerability within the fig2dev software, specifically in the genge_itp_spline function. Fig2dev is a component of the Graphviz suite used for converting graph descriptions into various output formats. The vulnerability arises when local input is manipulated in a way that causes the function to dereference a NULL pointer, leading to a crash and denial of service. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 4.7 reflects a medium severity rating, with an attack vector limited to local access (AV:L), high attack complexity (AC:H), no privileges required (PR:N), and requiring user interaction (UI:R). The impact is limited to availability (A:N is false in the vector, but the description states availability is affected), with no confidentiality or integrity impact. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, and no patches have been published at this time. The vulnerability is primarily a stability and availability concern, potentially disrupting workflows that depend on fig2dev for graph rendering. Since exploitation requires local access and user interaction, remote exploitation is not feasible, reducing the overall risk profile. However, environments where fig2dev is used in automated or batch processes could experience service interruptions if malicious or malformed inputs are processed locally.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-46399 is the potential denial of service caused by application crashes when processing manipulated local inputs. This can disrupt operations relying on fig2dev for graph rendering, particularly in academic, research, and engineering sectors where such tools are commonly used. The vulnerability does not expose sensitive data or allow unauthorized code execution, limiting the risk to availability only. However, availability disruptions can lead to productivity losses, delayed project timelines, and increased support costs. Organizations with automated pipelines or batch jobs involving fig2dev are at higher risk of operational impact. Since exploitation requires local access and user interaction, insider threats or compromised local accounts pose the greatest risk. The lack of known exploits and patches means organizations must proactively implement mitigations to reduce exposure. The medium severity rating suggests that while the threat is not critical, it should not be ignored, especially in environments with high dependency on fig2dev.

To mitigate CVE-2025-46399 effectively, European organizations should: 1) Restrict local access to systems running fig2dev, ensuring only trusted users can execute the software. 2) Implement strict input validation and sanitization for any data fed into fig2dev, especially if inputs originate from untrusted sources or automated processes. 3) Monitor application logs and system stability for signs of crashes or abnormal behavior related to fig2dev usage. 4) Employ application whitelisting and endpoint protection to prevent unauthorized execution of malicious inputs. 5) Isolate fig2dev usage in sandboxed or containerized environments to limit the impact of potential crashes. 6) Stay informed about vendor patches or updates addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once available. 7) Educate users about the risk of processing untrusted inputs locally and enforce policies to minimize risky user interactions. 8) Consider alternative tools or updated versions of fig2dev if available and verified to be free of this vulnerability. These measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on access control, input hygiene, monitoring, and containment strategies tailored to the local exploitation vector and availability impact.