CVE-2025-13433 is an unquoted search path vulnerability identified in Muse Group's MuseHub version 2.1.0.1567, specifically within the Muse.Updater.exe component running as a Windows service. An unquoted search path occurs when an executable path containing spaces is not enclosed in quotes, allowing Windows to incorrectly resolve the path and potentially execute malicious binaries placed in higher-priority directories in the search order. This vulnerability requires local access and low privileges but does not require user interaction or authentication beyond local presence. The attack complexity is high due to the need for local access and precise placement of malicious files. Exploitation could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Muse.Updater.exe service, potentially leading to privilege escalation or system compromise. The vendor has not responded to disclosure requests, and no patches are currently available. The CVSS 4.0 score is 7.3 (high), reflecting the significant impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, combined with difficult exploitability. The vulnerability affects a specific version of MuseHub, a multimedia software platform used by creative professionals, which may be installed in environments with sensitive data or critical workflows.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-13433 includes potential local privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution on systems running the vulnerable MuseHub version. This could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive multimedia projects, intellectual property theft, or disruption of creative workflows. Given MuseHub's role in managing multimedia content, exploitation could compromise data integrity and availability, affecting production timelines and business continuity. The requirement for local access limits remote exploitation but increases risk in environments with shared workstations or insufficient endpoint security. Organizations in sectors such as media, entertainment, and digital content creation are particularly at risk. The lack of vendor response and patches increases the window of exposure, necessitating proactive mitigation. Additionally, compromised systems could serve as footholds for lateral movement within corporate networks, amplifying the threat.

To mitigate CVE-2025-13433, European organizations should first identify and inventory all systems running MuseHub 2.1.0.1567. Since no official patch is available, immediate steps include restricting local access to trusted users only, enforcing strict endpoint security policies, and applying application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized binaries from executing in directories involved in the search path. Administrators should manually inspect the installation directories for unquoted paths and, if feasible, rename directories or executables to eliminate spaces or apply quotes in service configurations. Employing least privilege principles to limit the permissions of the Muse.Updater.exe service can reduce exploitation impact. Monitoring system logs and file system changes related to MuseHub directories can help detect attempted exploitation. Organizations should also consider isolating systems running MuseHub from critical network segments to contain potential breaches. Finally, maintain vigilance for vendor updates or community patches and plan for timely deployment once available.