[Security Alert] Critical WinRAR Vulnerability: Please Update to Version 7.13 or Switch to 7-Zip Immediately
update date:
The
National Institute of Cyber Security (NICS) has recently identified a critical
security vulnerability in WinRAR (CVE-2025-8088).
Remote
attackers can exploit this vulnerability by distributing malicious archive
files via phishing emails. These attacks are triggered through "seemingly
normal .rar files" and can lead to:
- 💻 Malware implantation
- 📂 Data theft
- 🔄 Malicious programs setting themselves to
auto-run on startup
🚨 Risk Alert: School-licensed
versions of WinRAR older than version 7.13 are at the highest risk.
Please update immediately or switch to a secure alternative.
🛠️ How to Update WinRAR
(Choose one method)
Method
1: For General Users (Download via Official Website)
- Open your web
browser and visit the official WinRAR website: https://www.rarlab.com/download.htm
- Download the
version appropriate for your system (WinRAR x64 (64 bit) is the
most common for Windows).
- Follow the
on-screen installation steps to complete the update.
Method
2: For Advanced Users (Via Command Line / CMD) Windows users can update using the
system's built-in "Package Manager":
- Type CMD in
the Windows search bar. Locate Command Prompt, right-click it, and
select "Run as administrator".
- In the black window
that appears, type the following command and press Enter: winget
upgrade --name WinRAR RARLab.WinRAR
- The system will
automatically download and install the latest version of WinRAR.
🔒 Recommended Secure Alternatives
If
you prefer not to update WinRAR, we recommend switching to these secure tools:
- ✅ Windows 11
Built-in Tool: Use the native extraction feature in Windows 11.
- ✅ 7-Zip: A
free and secure open-source alternative. (Download
Link)
⚠️ Important Security
Reminders
- ❌ Do not install
cracked versions or software from unknown sources.
- ⚠️ Remain highly
vigilant regarding .rar attachments from unknown senders.
Thank
you for your cooperation in maintaining our cybersecurity.