CVE-2025-7224 is a high-severity vulnerability classified as CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write) affecting INVT's HMITool software, specifically version 7.1.011. The vulnerability arises from improper validation of user-supplied data during the parsing of VPM files, leading to a write operation beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. This memory corruption flaw can be exploited by remote attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of the current process. Exploitation requires user interaction, such as opening a maliciously crafted VPM file or visiting a malicious webpage that triggers the vulnerable parsing routine. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.0 base score of 7.8, indicating high severity, with attack vector local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), user interaction required (UI:R), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the nature of the vulnerability—remote code execution via file parsing—makes it a significant threat, especially in environments where HMITool is used for human-machine interface operations in industrial or manufacturing contexts. The lack of a patch at the time of publication further increases the risk for affected users.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be substantial, particularly for those in industrial automation, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure sectors where INVT HMITool is deployed. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to gain control over systems running HMITool, potentially leading to disruption of industrial processes, data theft, or sabotage. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that sensitive operational data could be exposed or manipulated, and system availability could be compromised, causing operational downtime. Given the requirement for user interaction, social engineering or phishing campaigns targeting employees to open malicious files or visit harmful websites could be leveraged by attackers. The potential for remote code execution also raises concerns about lateral movement within networks, increasing the risk of broader compromise in enterprise environments.

Organizations should implement targeted mitigations beyond generic advice. First, restrict the use of INVT HMITool to trusted personnel and environments, minimizing exposure to untrusted files or websites. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to limit the execution context of HMITool and contain potential exploitation. Network segmentation should be enforced to isolate systems running HMITool from broader corporate and operational networks, reducing lateral movement risks. User training focused on recognizing phishing and social engineering attempts is critical to prevent the initial user interaction required for exploitation. Monitoring and logging of file access and process behavior related to HMITool should be enhanced to detect anomalous activities. Since no patch is currently available, consider disabling or limiting the parsing of VPM files if feasible, or using alternative tools until a vendor fix is released. Regularly check for vendor updates and apply patches promptly once available.