CVE-2025-7249 in CADImage Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 07/21/2025
IrfanView CADImage Plugin DWG File Parsing Memory Corruption Remote Code Execution Vulnerability. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of IrfanView CADImage Plugin. 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 DWG files. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of user-supplied data, which can result in a memory corruption condition. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-26100.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/25/2025
The CVE-2025-7249 vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw within the IrfanView CADImage Plugin that specifically targets the parsing of DWG files. This vulnerability resides in the way the plugin processes AutoCAD Drawing Database files, which are commonly used in engineering and architectural applications. The flaw manifests when the plugin fails to properly validate user-supplied data during the parsing process, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within a widely used image viewing application that many users trust and frequently interact with, making it an attractive target for cybercriminals seeking to compromise systems through social engineering or malicious web content.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the CADImage plugin's DWG file parser. When processing maliciously crafted DWG files, the plugin fails to properly sanitize or validate the structure and content of the input data, leading to memory corruption conditions that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. The memory corruption occurs during the parsing phase where the plugin attempts to interpret various DWG file elements, particularly those related to geometric data structures and object references. The vulnerability can be triggered through multiple attack vectors including web-based delivery, email attachments, or direct file execution, making it highly versatile in exploitation scenarios.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it allows attackers to gain full control over the affected system's execution context. When successfully exploited, the malicious code runs with the privileges of the IrfanView process, which typically operates with the user's current permissions. This can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's requirement for user interaction creates a social engineering component that makes it particularly dangerous in targeted attacks, as attackers can craft convincing phishing campaigns or malicious websites that entice users to open compromised DWG files. The attack surface is broadened by the fact that IrfanView is commonly used in professional environments where users frequently handle CAD files from various sources, increasing the likelihood of successful exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-7249 should focus on immediate patch management and operational security measures. Organizations should prioritize updating to the latest version of IrfanView that includes a patched CADImage plugin, as this represents the most effective defense against exploitation. Network administrators should implement file type restrictions and sandboxing mechanisms to prevent automatic execution of DWG files, particularly in environments where users may encounter untrusted content. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers exploitation of remote services, and T1059, which covers command and script interpreter usage. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file processing activities and network connections initiated by IrfanView, particularly when handling files from external sources. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the dangers of opening untrusted files and the importance of verifying file sources before processing potentially malicious content.