CVE-2025-11575 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-276 (Incorrect Default Permissions) affecting the MongoDB Atlas SQL ODBC driver on Windows platforms, specifically versions from 1.0.0 through 2.0.0. The vulnerability stems from the driver being installed or configured with overly permissive default file or resource permissions, which can be exploited by a local user with limited privileges to escalate their rights on the system. This escalation can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data or system functions, compromising confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The CVSS 4.0 vector indicates that the attack requires local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), privileges (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), and results in high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). The vulnerability is significant because the driver is used to connect applications to MongoDB Atlas via SQL ODBC, a common integration point in enterprise environments. Although no public exploits have been reported, the presence of incorrect default permissions is a well-known vector for privilege escalation attacks, making this a critical security concern. The lack of available patches at the time of publication necessitates immediate mitigation efforts by administrators to prevent exploitation.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk, especially those utilizing MongoDB Atlas SQL ODBC drivers on Windows systems for database connectivity. Successful exploitation could allow attackers or malicious insiders to escalate privileges, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or disruption of services. This could compromise sensitive customer data, intellectual property, and operational integrity. Given the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, organizations could face regulatory penalties under GDPR if personal data is exposed. Additionally, the disruption of critical business applications relying on MongoDB connectivity could result in operational downtime and financial losses. The threat is particularly relevant for sectors with stringent data protection requirements such as finance, healthcare, and government institutions across Europe.

1. Immediately audit and restrict file system permissions related to the MongoDB Atlas SQL ODBC driver installation directories and associated configuration files to ensure only authorized users have access. 2. Limit local user accounts that can access or execute the ODBC driver to trusted administrators or service accounts. 3. Monitor system logs and security events for unusual privilege escalation attempts or access patterns involving the ODBC driver. 4. Employ application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized execution of modified or malicious driver components. 5. If possible, isolate systems running the vulnerable driver within segmented network zones to limit lateral movement. 6. Engage with MongoDB support or monitor official channels for patches or updated driver versions addressing this vulnerability, and plan prompt deployment once available. 7. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focusing on privilege escalation vectors related to database connectivity components. 8. Educate system administrators and users about the risks of privilege escalation and the importance of least privilege principles in managing database drivers and related software.