CVE-2025-7979 is a high-severity stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability found in Ashlar-Vellum Graphite version 13_SE_13048. The vulnerability arises from improper validation of user-supplied data length during the parsing of VC6 files, which are presumably project or design files used by the software. Specifically, the application copies data from a VC6 file into a stack-based buffer without adequate bounds checking, leading to a classic stack buffer overflow condition (CWE-121). This flaw can be exploited remotely but requires user interaction, such as opening a maliciously crafted VC6 file or visiting a malicious webpage that triggers the file parsing. Successful exploitation allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the current process, potentially leading to full compromise of the affected system. The CVSS v3.0 base score is 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity but requiring user interaction and local vector (AV:L). No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability was reserved in July 2025 and published in September 2025 by the Zero Day Initiative (ZDI).

For European organizations using Ashlar-Vellum Graphite, especially those in design, engineering, or manufacturing sectors, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, data theft, or disruption of critical design workflows. Given the high confidentiality and integrity impact, sensitive intellectual property and design data could be exposed or altered. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be leveraged to deliver malicious VC6 files. The potential for remote code execution also raises concerns about lateral movement within corporate networks if exploited. This could disrupt business operations and lead to reputational damage or regulatory consequences under GDPR if personal or sensitive data is compromised.

Organizations should implement a multi-layered mitigation strategy: 1) Restrict and monitor the opening of VC6 files from untrusted sources, including disabling automatic file previews in email clients and browsers. 2) Educate users about the risks of opening files from unknown or suspicious origins to reduce the likelihood of social engineering exploitation. 3) Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques for Ashlar-Vellum Graphite to contain potential exploitation. 4) Monitor network and endpoint logs for unusual behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 5) Coordinate with Ashlar-Vellum for timely patching once updates become available, and prioritize patch deployment. 6) Consider network segmentation to limit exposure of critical design systems. 7) Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of detecting anomalous process behavior related to buffer overflow exploitation.