CVE-2025-13433 is an unquoted search path vulnerability affecting Muse Group's MuseHub software, version 2.1.0.1567. The vulnerability resides in the Windows Service component, specifically within the Muse.Updater.exe executable located in the WindowsApps directory. Unquoted search path vulnerabilities occur when an application or service executes a program or script using a file path that contains spaces but lacks proper quotation marks. This can cause the Windows operating system to search for executables in unintended directories, allowing an attacker to place a malicious executable in a higher-priority directory in the search order. When the service runs, it may inadvertently execute the malicious code with the privileges of the service. In this case, the attack requires local access with limited privileges and does not require user interaction, but the complexity is high due to the need to place malicious files in specific locations and the service's execution context. The vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability because it can lead to arbitrary code execution and potential privilege escalation. The vendor was contacted but did not respond, and no patches or mitigations have been published. No known exploits are currently in the wild, but the high CVSS score of 7.3 reflects the serious nature of the vulnerability. The lack of vendor response and patch availability increases the risk for organizations relying on this software.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for those using MuseHub 2.1.0.1567 in environments where local user access cannot be tightly controlled. Successful exploitation could allow an attacker with limited local privileges to escalate their rights, execute arbitrary code, and potentially compromise sensitive data or disrupt operations. This is particularly concerning for organizations in creative industries, media, or any sector relying on MuseHub for audio or media management. The vulnerability could be leveraged as a foothold for further lateral movement within corporate networks. Given the high complexity and local access requirement, the threat is more relevant in environments with multiple users or where endpoint security is lax. The absence of vendor patches means organizations must rely on compensating controls, increasing operational risk. Additionally, the lack of user interaction requirement means that once local access is gained, exploitation can be automated or executed stealthily, increasing the potential impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems.

European organizations should implement strict local access controls to limit the number of users with local access to systems running MuseHub. Employ application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized executables from running in directories vulnerable to unquoted search path exploitation. Regularly audit and monitor file system permissions in the WindowsApps directory and related paths to detect unauthorized file placements. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to identify suspicious process executions and privilege escalation attempts. Until a patch is available, consider isolating systems running MuseHub or running the software with the least privilege necessary. Educate users about the risks of local privilege escalation and enforce strong endpoint security policies. If possible, upgrade to a newer version of MuseHub once the vendor releases a fix. Additionally, implement robust logging and alerting to detect any anomalous behavior related to Muse.Updater.exe execution. Finally, consider using application sandboxing or containerization to limit the impact of potential exploitation.