CVE-2025-12046 is a DLL hijacking vulnerability classified under CWE-427 (Uncontrolled Search Path Element) affecting Lenovo App Store and Lenovo Browser applications. This vulnerability arises when the affected applications improperly handle the search path for DLLs, allowing a local authenticated user to place a malicious DLL in a location that the application will load instead of the legitimate one. This hijacking can lead to arbitrary code execution with elevated privileges, potentially granting the attacker full control over the system. The vulnerability requires local access with some privileges (local authenticated user) but does not require user interaction, making it easier to exploit once access is obtained. The CVSS 4.0 vector indicates low attack complexity, no user interaction, and privileges required but no additional authentication barriers. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the high CVSS score (8.5) reflects the significant risk posed by this vulnerability. The affected product is Lenovo App Store, with affected versions unspecified beyond version 0, suggesting early or initial releases. The vulnerability was reserved in October 2025 and published in December 2025, indicating recent discovery. The lack of patch links suggests that fixes may still be pending or in development. DLL hijacking vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they can be exploited to bypass security controls and execute malicious code stealthily, often evading detection by traditional antivirus solutions. This vulnerability could be leveraged by attackers who have gained local access through other means, such as phishing or physical access, to escalate privileges and compromise the entire system.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially those relying on Lenovo hardware and software ecosystems. Successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise, allowing attackers to steal sensitive data, disrupt operations, or establish persistent footholds. Critical sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and manufacturing could face severe operational and reputational damage. The requirement for local authenticated access limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, as attackers often gain initial footholds through other vectors. Elevated privileges gained through this vulnerability can bypass endpoint protections and security monitoring, increasing the difficulty of detection and response. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but should not lead to complacency, as proof-of-concept exploits may emerge rapidly after disclosure. European organizations with Lenovo devices should consider this vulnerability a high priority due to the potential for lateral movement and privilege escalation within networks.

Organizations should immediately inventory Lenovo devices running the affected App Store and Browser applications to assess exposure. Although patches are not yet linked, monitoring Lenovo's official security advisories for updates is critical. In the interim, restrict local user privileges to the minimum necessary, preventing untrusted users from writing to directories where DLLs are loaded. Implement application whitelisting and code integrity policies to prevent unauthorized DLL loading. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous DLL loads or privilege escalation attempts. Conduct user awareness training to reduce the risk of initial local access compromise. Network segmentation can limit the spread of an attacker who exploits this vulnerability. Finally, prepare incident response plans to quickly address potential exploitation scenarios once patches become available.