CVE-2025-71356 picklescan CVE debrief

Who should care

Developers and users of picklescan, especially those handling untrusted pickle files, should be aware of this vulnerability. Updating picklescan to version 0.0.28 or later is recommended to prevent potential remote code execution attacks. Organizations using affected versions of picklescan should prioritize patching to protect against potential exploitation.

Technical summary

CVE-2025-71356 is a vulnerability in picklescan that allows attackers to embed malicious code in pickle files. The issue arises from picklescan's failure to detect malicious torch.fx.experimental.symbolic_shapes.ShapeEnv.evaluate_guards_expression function calls in pickle files. This vulnerability can lead to remote code execution when victims load the malicious pickle files. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 7.6, indicating a high severity. The vulnerability was reported by Vulncheck and affects picklescan versions before 0.0.28.

Defensive priority

High priority should be given to updating picklescan to version 0.0.28 or later. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security measures, such as validating and sanitizing pickle files before loading them, to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Recommended defensive actions

• Update picklescan to version 0.0.28 or later.
• Implement additional security measures, such as validating and sanitizing pickle files before loading them.
• Monitor for suspicious pickle file activity.
• Consider using alternative libraries or technologies for handling pickle files.
• Review and update security policies and procedures for handling untrusted pickle files.

Evidence notes

The vulnerability was reported by Vulncheck and affects picklescan versions before 0.0.28. Limited information is available about the affected products and versions. The CVE record and NVD detail pages provide additional information about the vulnerability.

Sources and references

Methodology and review provenance

AI-assisted synthesis based on stored public vulnerability evidence. System validation, approval state, and publication status do not by themselves establish human review of this revision. PatchSiren helps prioritize defensive review and does not prove exposure or remediation on any system.