CVE-2025-12286 identifies an unquoted search path vulnerability in the AVService component of VeePN versions 1.6.0 through 1.6.2. The vulnerability exists because the executable path 'C:\Program Files (x86)\VeePN\avservice\avservice.exe' is not enclosed in quotes, which on Windows systems can lead to the OS searching for executables in unintended directories if a malicious executable is placed in one of the path segments. An attacker with local access and a high degree of skill can exploit this by placing a crafted executable in a directory such as 'C:\Program Files (x86)\VeePN\avservice\' or higher in the path hierarchy. When the system or the service attempts to run avservice.exe, it may inadvertently execute the attacker's code instead. The vulnerability does not require user interaction or elevated privileges initially but does require local access and is difficult to exploit due to complexity. The CVSS 4.0 score is 7.3 (high), reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, but with high attack complexity and limited attack vector (local). No patches or vendor responses have been published yet, and no known exploits are in the wild. This vulnerability could lead to privilege escalation or arbitrary code execution, compromising the security of affected systems.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk especially for those relying on VeePN VPN clients for secure remote access. Successful exploitation could allow attackers with local access to escalate privileges or execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to full system compromise. This could undermine the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive communications and data protected by the VPN. Critical sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and infrastructure that depend on VPNs for secure connectivity could face operational disruptions or data breaches. The requirement for local access limits remote exploitation but insider threats or attackers gaining initial footholds through other means could leverage this vulnerability to deepen their access. The lack of vendor response and patches increases exposure time, raising the urgency for organizations to implement compensating controls. Additionally, the high complexity and difficulty of exploitation reduce but do not eliminate the risk, especially in targeted attacks.

1. Restrict local access to systems running vulnerable VeePN versions by enforcing strict access controls and least privilege principles. 2. Monitor directories in the executable path for unauthorized or suspicious files, particularly in 'C:\Program Files (x86)\VeePN\avservice\'. 3. Use application whitelisting to prevent execution of unauthorized binaries in these directories. 4. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to detect anomalous process executions or privilege escalations. 5. Until an official patch is released, consider uninstalling or disabling the vulnerable AVService component if feasible. 6. Educate users and administrators about the risk of local attacks and enforce strong physical and remote access security policies. 7. Regularly audit and update VPN client software and monitor vendor communications for patch releases. 8. Implement network segmentation to limit lateral movement if a local compromise occurs. 9. Use Windows security features such as Controlled Folder Access and User Account Control (UAC) to reduce impact. 10. Prepare incident response plans to quickly address any exploitation attempts.