CVE-2012-1441: eSafe and Prevx EXE parser malware detection bypass

Automated analysis

Generated by VULONE's analysis model from the NVD record, CISA KEV and EPSS data on 19 September 2026. Confidence: medium.

medium priorityThe flaw defeats malware detection but has only partial integrity impact (CVSS 4.3) and no confirmed in-the-wild exploitation, despite a high EPSS score.

What it is

The Microsoft EXE file parser in eSafe 7.0.17.0 and Prevx 3.0 can be evaded by an EXE file that carries a modified value in any of several e_ fields. Because the parser misreads the file, the security product fails to flag malicious content, so its core detection function is defeated. The record notes this may later be split into separate CVEs if the error proves independent across parser implementations.

Impact

An attacker can deliver a malicious EXE that the affected scanner treats as benign, allowing malware to reach the endpoint without being detected. The flaw only affects detection integrity; the CVSS vector shows no confidentiality or availability impact.

Attack surface

Reached remotely over the network by supplying a crafted EXE file to the scanning product; no authentication is required, though the CVSS temporal-style vector notes medium access complexity. No user interaction beyond handling the file is implied by the description.

Exploitation

Not listed in CISA KEV and no reference carries an exploit tag, but EPSS is 0.70282 (99.35th percentile), indicating a high modeled likelihood of exploitation activity. No public exploit details are provided in the record.

What to do

• Apply vendor updates for eSafe and Prevx if any are available; the record does not list fixed versions, so confirm with the vendor.
• Do not rely on the affected EXE parser as a sole detection layer; add independent endpoint and network inspection.
• Block or quarantine EXE attachments and downloads at the gateway where operationally feasible.
• Monitor vendor advisories for the possible CVE split, which may change affected product scope.

Detection

• Hunt for EXE files with unusual or malformed e_ field values reaching the mail or web gateway.
• Correlate scanner verdicts with sandbox or second-opinion engine results to find files the affected parser passed.
• Alert on EXE files that pass the affected product but are flagged by other engines.

This assessment is produced automatically and is not human-reviewed. Verify against the vendor advisory before acting on it.