CVE-2025-11462 is a critical security vulnerability classified under CWE-59 (Improper Link Resolution Before File Access) affecting the AWS Client VPN software on macOS versions 1.3.2 through 5.2.0. The flaw arises from insufficient validation of the log destination directory during the log rotation process. Specifically, a local non-administrator user can create a symbolic link (symlink) from the client log file to a privileged system location. During log rotation, the VPN client writes logs to this symlinked location without verifying the link's target, which can be exploited to overwrite or inject arbitrary code into privileged files. If the attacker crafts API calls that inject malicious code into the log content, the log rotation process executes this code with root privileges, effectively allowing local privilege escalation. The vulnerability requires local access but no elevated privileges or user interaction, making it easier to exploit in environments where multiple users share a macOS system. AWS has addressed this vulnerability in version 5.2.1 of the Client VPN for macOS. The CVSS 4.0 vector (AV:L/AC:L/AT:N/PR:L/UI:N/VC:H/VI:H/VA:H/SC:H/SI:H/SA:H) reflects a local attack vector with low complexity, no authentication required, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. There are no known exploits in the wild yet, but the critical severity and ease of exploitation warrant immediate attention.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk of local privilege escalation on macOS systems running AWS Client VPN. Organizations with shared macOS environments or users with local access could see attackers gain root-level control, potentially leading to full system compromise, data theft, or disruption of VPN services. This could undermine the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive corporate communications and data accessed via the VPN. The elevated privileges could also allow attackers to disable security controls, install persistent malware, or pivot to other network resources. Given the widespread adoption of AWS services and VPNs for secure remote access in Europe, especially in sectors like finance, government, and technology, the impact could be severe if exploited. The vulnerability also threatens availability by potentially disrupting VPN connectivity through malicious log file manipulation.

European organizations should immediately upgrade all AWS Client VPN for macOS installations to version 5.2.1 or later to patch this vulnerability. In addition, restrict local user permissions on macOS systems to prevent unauthorized creation of symbolic links in VPN log directories. Implement monitoring for unusual file system changes or log rotation activities that could indicate exploitation attempts. Employ endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting privilege escalation attempts and anomalous process behaviors. Consider isolating VPN client usage to dedicated user accounts with minimal privileges and enforce strict access controls on macOS devices. Regularly audit local user accounts and remove unnecessary privileges. Finally, educate IT staff and users about the risks of local access vulnerabilities and the importance of timely patching.