CVE-2025-7979 is a high-severity stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in Ashlar-Vellum Graphite, specifically affecting version 13_SE_13048. The vulnerability arises from improper validation of the length of user-supplied data during the parsing of VC6 files. When a maliciously crafted VC6 file is processed, the lack of bounds checking allows an attacker to overflow a stack buffer, potentially overwriting the stack frame and enabling arbitrary code execution within the context of the current process. Exploitation requires user interaction, such as opening a malicious file or visiting a malicious page that triggers the vulnerable file parsing. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 (Stack-based Buffer Overflow) and has a CVSS v3.0 base score of 7.8, indicating high severity. The vector metrics specify that the attack requires local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), user interaction (UI:R), unchanged scope (S:U), and results in high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been published 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 version 13_SE_13048, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Successful exploitation can lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to gain control over affected systems, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, or disruption of business operations. Given the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, sensitive design files or intellectual property managed within Graphite could be exposed or manipulated. The requirement for user interaction means that phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver malicious VC6 files. Organizations in sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, and design—where Ashlar-Vellum Graphite is used—may face operational disruptions and reputational damage. Additionally, the lack of patches increases the window of exposure until a fix is available, emphasizing the need for proactive mitigation.

1. Implement strict email and file filtering to block or quarantine VC6 files from untrusted sources to reduce the risk of malicious file delivery. 2. Educate users on the risks of opening files from unknown or untrusted origins, emphasizing caution with VC6 files and suspicious links. 3. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to restrict the execution context of Ashlar-Vellum Graphite, limiting the potential damage of exploitation. 4. Monitor network and endpoint logs for unusual activity related to Graphite processes, including unexpected file accesses or process behaviors. 5. Until an official patch is released, consider isolating systems running the vulnerable version or restricting their network access to minimize exposure. 6. Engage with Ashlar-Vellum support channels to obtain updates on patch availability and apply them promptly once released. 7. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to detect exploitation attempts or anomalous behavior indicative of buffer overflow exploitation.