CVE-2025-64463 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability classified under CWE-125 found in National Instruments (NI) LabVIEW software, specifically within the LVResource::DetachResource() function. This vulnerability arises when LabVIEW parses a corrupted VI (Virtual Instrument) file, leading to an out-of-bounds memory read. Such memory access errors can cause the application to disclose sensitive information or enable an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the affected process. The vulnerability affects NI LabVIEW versions 23.1.0, 24.1.0, 25.1.0, and all versions up to 25.3 (2025 Q3). Exploitation requires an attacker to convince a user to open a specially crafted VI file, which means user interaction is necessary, but no prior privileges are required. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity due to the potential for confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. The attack vector is local (AV:L), indicating that the attacker must have local access or deliver the malicious file to the user. The vulnerability could lead to full system compromise if exploited successfully. As of the publication date (December 18, 2025), no known exploits have been reported in the wild, and no official patches have been released, increasing the urgency for organizations to implement interim mitigations. NI LabVIEW is widely used in engineering, industrial automation, and scientific research, making this vulnerability particularly relevant to sectors relying on precise instrumentation and control systems.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-64463 can be significant, especially in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and research institutions where NI LabVIEW is commonly used for automation and instrumentation. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive design or operational data, potentially exposing intellectual property or confidential project details. Arbitrary code execution could allow attackers to disrupt critical industrial processes, manipulate data, or establish persistent footholds within networks, leading to operational downtime and financial losses. Given the reliance on LabVIEW in critical infrastructure and R&D environments, this vulnerability poses risks to both operational integrity and data confidentiality. The requirement for user interaction means social engineering or phishing campaigns could be leveraged to deliver malicious VI files. The absence of patches increases the window of exposure, necessitating proactive defense measures. Additionally, the vulnerability could be exploited in targeted attacks against European organizations involved in high-tech manufacturing or research, potentially affecting supply chains and innovation capabilities.

1. Restrict the sources of VI files: Implement strict policies to only allow VI files from trusted sources and verified internal repositories. 2. User awareness training: Educate users about the risks of opening VI files from untrusted or unknown origins and encourage verification before opening. 3. Network segmentation: Isolate systems running LabVIEW to limit exposure and reduce the risk of lateral movement if exploitation occurs. 4. Monitor file activity: Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to monitor for unusual file access or execution patterns related to VI files. 5. Use application whitelisting: Restrict execution of unauthorized or unexpected VI files. 6. Prepare for patch deployment: Maintain close communication with NI for updates and apply patches immediately once available. 7. Implement least privilege: Ensure users running LabVIEW do not have unnecessary administrative privileges to limit exploitation impact. 8. Backup critical VI files and configurations regularly to enable recovery in case of compromise. 9. Consider sandboxing or running LabVIEW in controlled environments when handling untrusted VI files. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on controlling the attack vector (malicious VI files) and limiting the environment's exposure until official patches are released.