CVE-2025-64463 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability classified under CWE-125 found in the LVResource::DetachResource() function of NI LabVIEW, a widely used graphical programming environment for engineering and industrial automation. The vulnerability occurs when LabVIEW parses a corrupted or specially crafted VI (Virtual Instrument) file, leading to an out-of-bounds memory read. This memory corruption can result in the disclosure of sensitive information or enable arbitrary code execution, depending on the memory contents accessed and subsequent program behavior. Exploitation requires an attacker to convince a user to open a malicious VI file, which means user interaction is necessary. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of LabVIEW up to and including 25.3 (Q3 2025 release). The CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.8 indicates a high severity, with an attack vector of local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but user interaction required (UI:R). The scope remains unchanged (S:U), and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no public exploits are currently known, the potential for serious impact exists due to the possibility of arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability highlights the risk of processing untrusted VI files in LabVIEW environments, which are common in industrial and research settings.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-64463 can be significant, especially in sectors relying heavily on NI LabVIEW such as manufacturing, industrial automation, automotive, aerospace, and research institutions. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive design data, intellectual property theft, or disruption of critical engineering processes through arbitrary code execution. This could compromise the integrity and availability of control systems and research environments, potentially causing operational downtime and financial losses. The requirement for user interaction limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, as targeted spear-phishing or social engineering campaigns could deliver malicious VI files. The high confidentiality impact is particularly concerning for organizations handling proprietary or regulated data under GDPR and other European data protection laws. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged as an initial foothold in a broader attack chain against industrial control systems or research networks.

European organizations should implement several specific mitigations beyond generic advice: 1) Restrict and monitor the sources of VI files, ensuring only trusted and verified files are opened in LabVIEW environments. 2) Implement strict file integrity checks and sandboxing where possible to isolate the execution of VI files. 3) Educate users on the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected VI files, emphasizing social engineering awareness. 4) Apply vendor patches promptly once available; monitor NI’s advisories for updates addressing this vulnerability. 5) Use endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior related to LabVIEW processes. 6) Employ network segmentation to limit the spread of potential compromise originating from LabVIEW workstations. 7) Maintain regular backups of critical VI files and project data to enable recovery in case of compromise. 8) Conduct vulnerability scanning and penetration testing focused on LabVIEW environments to identify and remediate exposure.