CVE-2025-12341 identifies a vulnerability in the ermig1979 AntiDupl software, specifically in versions 2.3.0 through 2.3.12. The affected component is the Delete Duplicate Image Handler within the AntiDupl.NET.WinForms.exe executable. The vulnerability involves 'link following,' which typically means the application improperly handles symbolic links or shortcuts, allowing an attacker to manipulate file system references. This can lead to unauthorized file access, modification, or deletion, potentially escalating privileges or compromising system integrity. The attack vector is local access with low complexity, requiring limited privileges but no user interaction. The CVSS 4.0 score of 8.5 reflects high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, indicating that successful exploitation could severely affect system security. The vendor has not responded to disclosure attempts, and no patches or mitigations have been published. No known exploits are currently active in the wild, but the vulnerability's nature and impact warrant immediate attention. The lack of network attack vector confines the threat to environments where attackers have local system access, such as shared workstations or compromised user accounts. The vulnerability's exploitation could be used to bypass security controls or manipulate critical image data, affecting workflows relying on AntiDupl for duplicate image management.

For European organizations, the vulnerability poses a significant risk in environments where AntiDupl is deployed, particularly in multi-user systems or shared workstations. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive image files, data tampering, or disruption of image management processes, impacting operational integrity. Industries relying on digital asset management, media, or archival services may face data loss or corruption. The local access requirement limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk in scenarios involving insider threats or compromised user accounts. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability could result in data breaches, loss of trust, and operational downtime. Additionally, the absence of vendor response and patches increases exposure duration, elevating risk levels. Organizations with strict data protection regulations, such as GDPR in Europe, may face compliance challenges if the vulnerability leads to data compromise. The threat is more pronounced in sectors with critical image processing needs or where AntiDupl is integrated into larger workflows.

To mitigate CVE-2025-12341, European organizations should immediately restrict local access to systems running vulnerable versions of AntiDupl, enforcing strict user permissions and access controls. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions to monitor and block suspicious activities related to AntiDupl processes. Isolate systems running AntiDupl from untrusted users and networks to minimize insider threat risks. Regularly audit file system permissions and symbolic link usage to detect anomalies. Consider temporarily discontinuing the use of AntiDupl or replacing it with alternative image deduplication tools that do not exhibit this vulnerability until an official patch is released. Implement robust logging and alerting mechanisms to identify potential exploitation attempts. Engage in proactive vulnerability management by tracking vendor updates and community advisories. Educate users about the risks of local exploitation and enforce strong authentication and session management to reduce the likelihood of unauthorized local access.