7-Zip Vulnerability Allows Attackers to Bypass Windows Security Warnings

Russian cybercrime groups have been actively exploiting a critical vulnerability in the 7-Zip archiver tool to bypass Windows Mark-of-the-Web (MotW) security protections. The flaw, tracked as CVE-2025-0411 with a CVSS score of 7.0, allows remote attackers to circumvent critical security warnings and potentially execute arbitrary code on targeted systems.

Discovered and patched by 7-Zip developers in November 2024, the vulnerability specifically impacts the tool's handling of archived files. Trend Micro security researcher Peter Girnus revealed that the exploit involves a sophisticated technique of double archiving contents, which effectively conceals malicious payloads and prevents Windows from applying proper security checks.

The attack methodology begins with a carefully crafted phishing email containing a specially designed archive file. Attackers utilize homoglyph attacks to manipulate file extensions, tricking users and Windows into believing the file is a legitimate document. By leveraging this vulnerability, threat actors can bypass Mark-of-the-Web protections that typically prevent automatic execution of potentially dangerous downloaded files.

Investigations suggest that the vulnerability was primarily weaponized to target governmental and non-governmental organizations in Ukraine. The campaign is believed to be part of ongoing cyber espionage efforts connected to the Russo-Ukrainian conflict. At least nine Ukrainian government entities, including the Ministry of Justice and various municipal services, were potentially impacted by these attacks.

The exploit chain typically involves a phishing email sent from compromised accounts, which appear authentic and credible. When a recipient opens the archive, an internet shortcut file triggers the download of another ZIP file containing the SmokeLoader malware, disguised as a PDF document. This approach allows attackers to execute malicious code while avoiding typical security warnings.

Security experts recommend that 7-Zip users immediately update to the latest version to protect against this vulnerability. Additionally, organizations should implement robust email filtering, disable execution of files from untrusted sources, and maintain heightened vigilance against sophisticated phishing attempts.

Girnus noted that smaller local government bodies are particularly vulnerable, often lacking comprehensive cybersecurity strategies and resources to defend against such advanced threats. These organizations can serve as potential entry points for threat actors seeking to pivot towards larger government systems.

The discovery underscores the ongoing challenges in cybersecurity, where attackers continuously develop innovative methods to bypass established security mechanisms. As cloud infrastructure and digital communication become increasingly complex, maintaining robust protection requires constant adaptation and vigilance.

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