CVE-2025-7986 is a high-severity remote code execution vulnerability affecting Ashlar-Vellum Graphite version 13.0, specifically in the VC6 file parsing component. The root cause is an out-of-bounds write (CWE-787) due to improper validation of user-supplied data when parsing VC6 files. This flaw allows an attacker to write data beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, potentially overwriting critical memory regions. Exploitation requires user interaction, such as opening a maliciously crafted VC6 file or visiting a malicious webpage that triggers the vulnerable parsing routine. Successful exploitation enables arbitrary code execution within the context of the current process, compromising confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system. The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.0 base score of 7.8, reflecting high impact and moderate exploitability (local attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, user interaction needed). No known public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be treated as a significant risk. The lack of a patch at the time of disclosure increases the urgency for mitigation and monitoring. Given the specialized nature of Ashlar-Vellum Graphite as a CAD/design software, the attack surface is limited to users who handle VC6 files, but the potential for remote code execution makes this a critical concern for environments where this software is used.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be substantial, especially in sectors relying on Ashlar-Vellum Graphite for design and engineering workflows, such as manufacturing, architecture, and product development. Successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, data theft, sabotage of design files, or lateral movement within corporate networks. This could disrupt critical design processes, cause intellectual property loss, and potentially impact supply chains. The requirement for user interaction limits mass exploitation but targeted spear-phishing or malicious file distribution campaigns could be effective. Organizations with remote or hybrid work models may face increased risk if users open malicious files outside controlled environments. Additionally, the high confidentiality and integrity impact could lead to regulatory and compliance issues under GDPR if sensitive design data is exposed or altered.

1. Immediately restrict the use of Ashlar-Vellum Graphite 13.0 to trusted sources and environments until a vendor patch is available. 2. Implement strict file handling policies: block or quarantine VC6 files from untrusted or external sources at email gateways and endpoint security solutions. 3. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious VC6 files and visiting untrusted websites. 4. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to limit the execution context of Ashlar-Vellum Graphite, reducing the impact of potential exploitation. 5. Monitor network and endpoint logs for unusual behavior related to Ashlar-Vellum Graphite processes, such as unexpected memory access or spawning of child processes. 6. Coordinate with Ashlar-Vellum for timely patch deployment once available and test updates in controlled environments before wide rollout. 7. Consider network segmentation for systems running this software to limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 8. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to detect exploitation attempts and respond rapidly.