CVE-2025-7980 is a high-severity remote code execution vulnerability affecting Ashlar-Vellum Graphite version 13_SE_13048. The flaw arises from an out-of-bounds write during the parsing of VC6 files, a file format used by the application. Specifically, the vulnerability is due to improper validation of user-supplied data, which allows an attacker to write beyond the allocated buffer boundary. This memory corruption can be exploited to execute arbitrary code within the context of the current process. Exploitation requires user interaction, such as opening a maliciously crafted VC6 file or visiting a web page that triggers the file parsing. The CVSS 3.0 base score is 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and no privileges required, but user interaction is necessary. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild. The vulnerability was assigned by the Zero Day Initiative (ZDI) as ZDI-CAN-25465 and is classified under CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write). The absence of a patch link indicates that a fix may not yet be publicly available, increasing the urgency for mitigation. Given the nature of the vulnerability, successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, data theft, or disruption of services running Ashlar-Vellum Graphite, a CAD/design software product used in specialized industries.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-7980 could be significant, especially for those in sectors relying on Ashlar-Vellum Graphite for design and engineering workflows, such as manufacturing, architecture, and industrial design. A successful exploit could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to theft of intellectual property, sabotage of design files, or lateral movement within corporate networks. This could disrupt critical design processes and cause financial and reputational damage. Additionally, since exploitation requires user interaction, targeted phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver malicious VC6 files. The high confidentiality and integrity impact means sensitive design data could be exposed or altered, affecting compliance with European data protection regulations such as GDPR if personal or sensitive data is involved. The availability impact could also interrupt business operations dependent on the software. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate it, especially as attackers may develop exploits once a patch is released or if the vulnerability becomes widely known.

European organizations should implement a multi-layered mitigation approach: 1) Immediately identify and inventory all installations of Ashlar-Vellum Graphite version 13_SE_13048 within their environment. 2) Restrict or disable the opening of VC6 files from untrusted or external sources to reduce exposure to malicious files. 3) Educate users on the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious files and links, emphasizing the need for caution with VC6 files. 4) Employ endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior or exploitation attempts related to memory corruption. 5) Monitor network and endpoint logs for unusual activity that could indicate exploitation attempts. 6) Coordinate with Ashlar-Vellum for timely patch deployment once a fix is released; consider applying virtual patching or workarounds if available. 7) Use application whitelisting to limit execution of unauthorized code within the context of Graphite. 8) Implement strict access controls and network segmentation to contain potential breaches. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on file-type restrictions, user awareness specific to VC6 files, and proactive monitoring tailored to this vulnerability.