Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in ClamAV's PDF Scanning Processes

CVE-2025-20260

What is CVE-2025-20260?

CVE-2025-20260 is a critical vulnerability affecting ClamAV, an open-source antivirus engine widely used in various applications for malware detection and prevention. This vulnerability specifically pertains to the PDF scanning processes within ClamAV. The improper allocation of memory buffers when processing PDF files can lead to a buffer overflow condition, which poses significant security threats to organizations utilizing this software. When exploited, the vulnerability allows an unauthenticated remote attacker to potentially disrupt the ClamAV scanning process, leading to a denial of service (DoS) condition or even the execution of arbitrary code on the affected device. As ClamAV is often deployed in environments requiring robust security measures, such as email servers and web gateways, the implications of this vulnerability could severely undermine an organization’s defense mechanisms against malware.

Potential Impact of CVE-2025-20260

1. Denial of Service (DoS): The exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to a termination of the ClamAV scanning process, rendering the antivirus software ineffective. This disruption can leave systems unprotected against malware, increasing the risk of infections and breaches.

2. Arbitrary Code Execution: While not confirmed, there is a potential for attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the ClamAV process. This capability could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to the affected system, leading to further malicious activities.

3. Compromise of Security Posture: Given ClamAV’s role in scanning and identifying threats, a successful exploit could allow attackers to bypass critical security measures. This could compromise the overall security posture of an organization, making it vulnerable to a range of cyber threats, including ransomware attacks and data breaches.

News Articles

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CVE-2025-20260CVE-2025-20128

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