CVE-2025-10548 is a vulnerability identified in CleverControl employee monitoring software version 11.5.1041.6, stemming from improper certificate validation (CWE-295) during the installation process. The software installer downloads external components over TLS but uses curl.exe with the --insecure option, which disables certificate validation. This flaw enables a man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacker positioned on the network path to intercept and modify the downloaded files. Because these files are executed with SYSTEM privileges, an attacker can achieve full remote code execution on the target machine without requiring authentication or user interaction. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality and availability of the system by allowing arbitrary code execution at the highest privilege level. No patches or vendor responses are currently available, and it is suspected that prior versions may also be vulnerable. The lack of certificate validation during installation is a critical security oversight, especially for software that operates with elevated privileges and monitors employee activity. Although no known exploits have been reported in the wild, the ease of exploitation and potential impact make this a significant threat. The CVSS 3.1 score of 6.5 reflects a medium severity, considering the network attack vector, no required privileges, and no user interaction, but limited impact on integrity and availability as per the vector string. Organizations relying on CleverControl should consider this vulnerability a priority for mitigation.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the potential for full system compromise via remote code execution with SYSTEM privileges. Employee monitoring software is often deployed in corporate environments, including sensitive sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government, making the impact on confidentiality and operational continuity critical. Attackers exploiting this flaw could gain persistent access, steal sensitive data, or disrupt operations. The lack of vendor response and patch availability increases the risk exposure duration. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks or broader campaigns exploiting network-level interception, especially in environments with insufficient network segmentation or weak perimeter defenses. Organizations in Europe with remote or hybrid workforces may be particularly vulnerable if installation occurs over untrusted networks. The impact extends beyond individual endpoints to potentially compromise entire corporate networks if lateral movement is achieved post-exploitation.

Since no patch is available, European organizations should immediately cease using the vulnerable installer version 11.5.1041.6 and avoid installing or updating CleverControl software until a secure version is released. Network-level mitigations include enforcing strict TLS interception policies, deploying network segmentation to isolate monitoring software installation traffic, and using VPNs or trusted networks for software deployment. Monitoring network traffic for unusual curl.exe usage or unexpected downloads during installation can help detect exploitation attempts. Endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions should be configured to alert on execution of unexpected binaries with SYSTEM privileges. Organizations should consider alternative employee monitoring solutions with verified secure installation processes. Additionally, educating IT staff about the risks of using insecure installation methods and enforcing strict software supply chain security policies will reduce exposure. Finally, maintaining comprehensive backups and incident response plans will mitigate damage in case of compromise.