CVE-2025-7252 in CADImage Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 07/21/2025
IrfanView CADImage Plugin DWG File Parsing Out-Of-Bounds Read 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 read past the end of an allocated buffer. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-26109.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/25/2025
The CVE-2025-7252 vulnerability represents a critical out-of-bounds read flaw within the IrfanView CADImage Plugin that processes DWG files, creating a remote code execution vector that affects installations of the popular image viewer software. This vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's handling of Computer Aided Design file formats, which are commonly used in engineering and architectural applications. The flaw manifests when the plugin attempts to parse malformed DWG files without adequate input validation, leading to memory access violations that can be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution issue indicates that attackers can potentially compromise systems without requiring physical access or local privileges, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where such files might be encountered through email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing platforms.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the insufficient validation of user-supplied data during the DWG file parsing process, which directly correlates to CWE-129 Input Validation and CWE-787 Out-of-bounds Read. When the CADImage plugin encounters a specially crafted DWG file, it fails to properly bounds-check memory accesses during file interpretation, allowing an attacker to manipulate memory layout and potentially redirect execution flow. The vulnerability's exploitation requires user interaction through either visiting a malicious webpage that loads the problematic file or opening a malicious DWG file directly, making it a classic example of a client-side attack vector. This behavior aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 Exploitation for Client Execution, where adversaries leverage vulnerabilities in applications to execute malicious code on target systems. The buffer overflow condition occurs when the plugin attempts to read beyond allocated memory boundaries, creating opportunities for attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code within the IrfanView process context.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it can enable attackers to establish persistent access to compromised systems and potentially escalate privileges within the affected environment. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability could gain complete control over the target machine, allowing them to install additional malware, steal sensitive data, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks against network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects not only individual users but also organizations that rely on IrfanView for document viewing, as the attack surface includes any system where the CADImage plugin is installed and enabled. Organizations may face significant security risks when employees encounter malicious DWG files through legitimate business channels, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing where such file formats are commonly used. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can target victims from anywhere on the internet without requiring direct network access to the target system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-7252 should focus on immediate patching of affected IrfanView installations, as well as implementing administrative controls to limit exposure to potentially malicious DWG files. Organizations should disable the CADImage plugin for users who do not require CAD file viewing capabilities, particularly in environments where security is paramount. Network-level defenses including web application firewalls and content filtering solutions can help prevent users from accessing malicious DWG files through web interfaces. Additionally, security awareness training should emphasize the dangers of opening unknown or untrusted files, particularly those with CAD file extensions. The vulnerability's exploitation requires user interaction, which means that behavioral controls and endpoint protection measures can provide additional layers of defense. Organizations should also consider implementing file type restrictions and monitoring for unusual file access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include checks for the presence of vulnerable IrfanView installations to ensure comprehensive protection against this and similar threats.