Heap-based buffer overflow in Windows GDI+ allows an unauthorized attacker to execute code over a network.
Description
Heap-based buffer overflow in Windows GDI+ allows an unauthorized attacker to execute code over a network.
AI Analyst Comment
Remediation
Update Unknown Multiple Products to the latest version. Monitor for exploitation attempts and review access logs.
Executive Summary:
A critical vulnerability has been identified in the Windows GDI+ component, a core part of the operating system used for handling graphics and images. This flaw, with a severity score of 9.8 out of 10, could allow a remote, unauthenticated attacker to take full control of a vulnerable system by tricking a user into opening a malicious image file. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data theft, and further network intrusion.
Vulnerability Details
CVE-ID: CVE-2025-53766
Affected Software: Unknown Multiple Products
Affected Versions: See vendor advisory for specific affected versions
Vulnerability: This vulnerability is a heap-based buffer overflow within the Windows Graphics Device Interface (GDI+) library. A heap-based buffer overflow occurs when a program writes data past the end of an allocated memory buffer on the heap. An attacker can exploit this by crafting a malicious image file or other graphical data. When a vulnerable application uses the GDI+ library to process this malicious file (e.g., rendering an image in a web browser, email client, or document), the overflow is triggered. This can corrupt memory in a way that allows the attacker to hijack the application's control flow and execute arbitrary code on the target system with the same permissions as the user running the application.
Business Impact
This vulnerability is rated as critical severity with a CVSS score of 9.8. Successful exploitation grants an attacker the ability to execute code remotely, leading to a complete compromise of the affected workstation or server. The potential business impact is severe and includes the theft of sensitive corporate data, customer information, or intellectual property; installation of malware such as ransomware, leading to operational downtime and financial loss; and using the compromised system as a foothold to launch further attacks against the internal network. The reputational damage resulting from a breach of this nature could also be significant.
Remediation Plan
Immediate Action: Identify all systems and applications that utilize the Windows GDI+ component and apply the necessary security updates provided by the relevant software vendors as soon as they become available. Patching of internet-facing systems (e.g., web servers, email gateways) and critical assets should be prioritized. Following patching, monitor for any signs of exploitation attempts and review system and application access logs for anomalous activity.
Proactive Monitoring: Security teams should configure monitoring tools to detect potential exploitation. This includes monitoring for unusual process creation from applications that commonly handle images (e.g., web browsers, email clients, office suites). Scrutinize network traffic for suspicious outbound connections from endpoints, which could indicate a connection to an attacker's command-and-control server. EDR and SIEM solutions should be tuned to detect memory corruption anomalies or specific patterns associated with GDI+ exploits.
Compensating Controls: If patching cannot be immediately deployed, the following compensating controls can help mitigate risk:
Exploitation Status
Public Exploit Available: false
Analyst Notes: As of August 12, 2025, there is no public proof-of-concept (PoC) exploit code available for this vulnerability, and it has not been observed in active exploitation campaigns. However, due to the critical rating and the widespread use of the GDI+ library, it is highly probable that threat actors and security researchers will rapidly develop exploit code. This vulnerability is not currently listed in the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog.
Analyst Recommendation
Given the critical severity (CVSS 9.8) of this remote code execution vulnerability, organizations must treat its remediation as a top priority. Although there is no evidence of active exploitation at this time, the potential for a reliable exploit to be developed is very high. We strongly recommend that all organizations immediately begin identifying affected assets and prepare for the deployment of vendor-supplied patches. Prioritize patching based on risk, addressing internet-facing and critical systems first. Where patching is delayed, the compensating controls listed above should be implemented to reduce the attack surface and mitigate risk.