Hey there, WinRAR users! Have you heard about the latest security concern with WinRAR? A recently patched vulnerability in WinRAR could potentially allow malicious codes to bypass security checks when downloading files, putting your device at risk.
WinRAR Vulnerability Enables Mark-of-the-Web (MotW) Bypass
A critical security flaw in WinRAR posed a significant risk to users by allowing unchecked malicious codes to infiltrate their devices.
Known as CVE-2025-31334, this vulnerability could bypass Mark-of-the-Web (MotW) security checks, even with executable files. This loophole enabled attackers to execute arbitrary codes on targeted devices by sending specially crafted archives.
Describing the flaw, the vulnerability report states:
An issue that circumvents the “Mark of the Web” security warning for files when opening a symbolic link pointing to an executable file exists in WinRAR versions prior to 7.11. Opening a maliciously crafted symbolic link on the affected product could lead to the execution of arbitrary code.
Rated as a medium severity with a CVSS score of 6.8, this vulnerability, despite its seemingly moderate risk, poses a serious threat to users who frequently handle compressed or archived files.
An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to infect a device for various malicious purposes, such as stealing credentials, data exfiltration, system file manipulation, or surreptitiously installing a backdoor to monitor device activities.
However, the Mark-of-the-Web (MotW) security check from Microsoft Windows marks potentially unsafe files downloaded from the internet, prompting users to verify their safety before proceeding. Hence, any vulnerabilities in tools allowing MotW bypass require immediate attention to safeguard users from potential threats.
Security Patch Deployed – Time to Update Your WinRAR
WinRAR has addressed this MotW bypass vulnerability in its latest software release. The flaw was initially discovered by security researcher Shimamine Taihei of Mitsui Bussan Secure Directions, Inc., who promptly reported it to WinRAR. Subsequently, WinRAR patched the vulnerability with version 7.11, along with other bug fixes.
With the update now available, it is crucial for users to update their WinRAR installations to the latest version for enhanced security. Additionally, exercising caution when dealing with executable files, sourcing them only from trusted providers, and employing robust anti-malware solutions are essential steps to mitigate potential threats.
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