CVE-2025-7978 Ashlar-Vellum Graphite VC6 File Parsing Uninitialized Variable Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

High 7.8 Published 17 Sep 2025 Updated 18 Sep 2025

Remote attackers can execute arbitrary code by tricking users into opening malicious VC6 files in Ashlar-Vellum Graphite due to uninitialized memory usage.

Exploited in the wild: Not known
Login needed: Not needed
Attackable: Local or same network only
Victim action needed: A user has to click or open something
Fix: None listed

What is CVE-2025-7978?

CVE-2025-7978 is a high-severity memory corruption vulnerability in Ashlar-Vellum Graphite, published on 17 Sep 2025. It can only be exploited from the same machine or local network, and only if a user opens a file or follows a link.

Official description

Ashlar-Vellum Graphite VC6 File Parsing Uninitialized Variable Remote Code Execution Vulnerability. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of Ashlar-Vellum Graphite. User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability in that the target must visit a malicious page or open a malicious file.

The specific flaw exists within the parsing of VC6 files. The issue results from the lack of proper initialization of memory prior to accessing it. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-25459.

Weakness: CWE-457

Which versions are affected by CVE-2025-7978?

It affects 1 product.

Products include Ashlar Graphite.

How do I fix CVE-2025-7978?

No fix has been published for CVE-2025-7978 yet. Limit exposure of the affected software until one is available.

Upgrade to the fixed version. Memory-safe languages, compiler hardening and fuzzing prevent most new cases. More about Memory corruption.

Is CVE-2025-7978 being exploited?

There is no known exploitation of CVE-2025-7978 in the wild and no public exploit code.

Sources

Also known as GHSA-gm3g-qr77-cwc9.