CVE-2025-12053 is a vulnerability classified as CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write) found in Insyde Software's InsydeH2O tools, which are commonly used in firmware for laptops and embedded devices. The vulnerability stems from the use of the RTL_QUERY_REGISTRY_DIRECT flag by drivers within these tools to read registry values. This method can be exploited by an untrusted user-mode application to cause a buffer overflow, leading to an out-of-bounds write condition. The flaw allows an attacker with low-level privileges (local access and low privileges) to manipulate registry data in a way that overwrites memory beyond the intended buffer boundaries. This can result in arbitrary code execution, privilege escalation, or system instability including crashes or denial of service. The vulnerability does not require user interaction, increasing the risk of automated or stealthy exploitation. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8 (AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H) indicates that while the attack vector is local, the attack complexity is low, privileges required are low, and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high. No public exploits are known yet, but the vulnerability is published and should be treated seriously. The affected versions are not explicitly listed but are implied to be those using vulnerable InsydeH2O firmware tools. Given the widespread use of InsydeH2O in various OEM devices, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to affected systems.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could have severe consequences. Many European enterprises and government agencies rely on laptops and embedded devices that use InsydeH2O firmware, especially in sectors like finance, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, allowing attackers to escalate privileges, steal sensitive data, or disrupt operations. The local attack vector means that insider threats or malware that gains initial foothold could leverage this flaw to deepen system compromise. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability makes it a critical concern for data protection and operational continuity. Additionally, the lack of user interaction requirement facilitates stealthy exploitation. Organizations with remote or hybrid workforces using vulnerable devices are particularly at risk. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate threat but does not diminish the urgency for mitigation given the potential damage.

1. Apply official patches from Insyde Software as soon as they become available; monitor vendor advisories closely. 2. Restrict local user privileges rigorously to prevent untrusted applications from manipulating registry values. 3. Implement application whitelisting and endpoint protection to detect and block suspicious registry access or buffer overflow attempts. 4. Monitor system logs and registry access patterns for anomalies indicative of exploitation attempts. 5. Employ hardware-based security features such as TPM and secure boot to reduce firmware tampering risks. 6. Conduct regular firmware integrity checks and update inventories to identify vulnerable devices. 7. Educate users and administrators about the risks of running untrusted local applications. 8. In environments where patching is delayed, consider isolating vulnerable devices or limiting local access to trusted personnel only. 9. Collaborate with OEMs to verify firmware versions and update schedules. 10. Integrate vulnerability scanning tools that can detect the presence of affected InsydeH2O firmware versions.