CVE-2025-53905

4.1 MEDIUM
Published: July 15, 2025 Modified: November 04, 2025

Description

Vim is an open source, command line text editor. Prior to version 9.1.1552, a path traversal issue in Vim’s tar.vim plugin can allow overwriting of arbitrary files when opening specially crafted tar archives. Impact is low because this exploit requires direct user interaction. However, successfully exploitation can lead to overwriting sensitive files or placing executable code in privileged locations, depending on the permissions of the process editing the archive. The victim must edit such a file using Vim which will reveal the filename and the file content, a careful user may suspect some strange things going on. Successful exploitation could results in the ability to execute arbitrary commands on the underlying operating system. Version 9.1.1552 contains a patch for the vulnerability.

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CVSS v3.x Details

0.0 Low Medium High Critical 10.0
Vector String
CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:H/PR:N/UI:R/S:C/C:N/I:L/A:L

References to Advisories, Solutions, and Tools

Patch Vendor Advisory Exploit Third Party Advisory
https://github.com/vim/vim/security/advisories/GHSA-74v4-f3x9-ppvr
Source: security-advisories@github.com
Exploit Vendor Advisory
http://www.openwall.com/lists/oss-security/2025/07/15/1
Source: af854a3a-2127-422b-91ae-364da2661108
https://github.com/vim/vim/security/advisories/GHSA-74v4-f3x9-ppvr
Source: 134c704f-9b21-4f2e-91b3-4a467353bcc0
Exploit Vendor Advisory

4 reference(s) from NVD

Quick Stats

CVSS v3 Score
4.1 / 10.0
EPSS (Exploit Probability)
0.0%
5th percentile
Exploitation Status
Not in CISA KEV

Weaknesses (CWE)

Affected Vendors

vim