CVE-2025-53518 in libbiosig
Summary
by MITRE • 08/25/2025
An integer overflow vulnerability exists in the ABF parsing functionality of The Biosig Project libbiosig 3.9.0 and Master Branch (35a819fa). A specially crafted ABF file can lead to arbitrary code execution. An attacker can provide a malicious file to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/03/2025
The integer overflow vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-53518 resides within the ABF parsing component of the biosig library version 3.9.0 and the master branch commit 35a819fa. This flaw manifests in the handling of Analog Binary Format files which are commonly used in electrophysiological data acquisition and analysis. The vulnerability represents a critical security weakness that can be exploited through crafted input files, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users might encounter untrusted ABF data. The ABF format is widely utilized in scientific research and medical applications where data integrity and system security are paramount.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and arithmetic handling within the ABF parser implementation. When processing maliciously constructed ABF files, the library fails to properly validate integer values during buffer size calculations or data structure parsing operations. This allows an attacker to manipulate the parsing logic through carefully crafted file headers or data segments that cause integer overflow conditions. The overflow occurs when the library attempts to calculate buffer sizes or array indices using values that exceed the maximum representable integer, leading to unexpected behavior that can be exploited for code execution. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-190 category of integer overflow/underflow, which is classified as a fundamental weakness in data handling and arithmetic operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system compromise, as it can lead to complete system takeover through arbitrary code execution. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can execute malicious code with the privileges of the affected application, potentially leading to data exfiltration, system modification, or further lateral movement within networked environments. The vulnerability affects any application that relies on libbiosig for ABF file processing, including scientific data analysis tools, medical diagnostic equipment, and research platforms that handle electrophysiological recordings. Given the widespread use of ABF files in neuroscience and medical research, this vulnerability could potentially impact numerous systems across research institutions, hospitals, and pharmaceutical companies where such data processing is routine.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-53518 should focus on immediate patching of affected libbiosig versions and implementation of defensive programming practices. Organizations should prioritize updating to patched versions of the biosig library and conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of systems that process ABF files. Input validation should be strengthened at all levels of the application stack, with particular attention to integer arithmetic operations and buffer size calculations. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1203 Exploitation for Client Execution, highlighting the need for comprehensive endpoint protection measures. Additionally, implementing sandboxing techniques for ABF file processing, network segmentation, and regular security monitoring can help reduce the attack surface and detect potential exploitation attempts. System administrators should also consider deploying automated patch management solutions to ensure rapid deployment of security updates across all affected systems.