CVE-2025-13919 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-427 (Uncontrolled Search Path Element) affecting Broadcom's Symantec Endpoint Protection Windows Client versions prior to 14.3 RU10 Patch 1, RU9 Patch 2, and RU8 Patch 3. The issue arises from the way the software handles COM (Component Object Model) references in the Windows Registry. An attacker with low-level privileges on a compromised or insider system can manipulate the search path for COM objects by hijacking registry entries. This hijacking allows the attacker to redirect legitimate COM object calls to malicious components, thereby establishing persistence on the system and evading detection mechanisms typically employed by endpoint protection software. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require local access with limited privileges, making it a post-compromise persistence technique rather than an initial infection vector. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 4.4 (medium), reflecting limited impact on confidentiality but notable impacts on integrity and availability due to potential tampering with security software components. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability's nature makes it a concern for environments relying heavily on Symantec Endpoint Protection for security enforcement. The lack of patch links in the provided data suggests organizations should verify with Broadcom for the latest updates and advisories. The vulnerability highlights the risks of insecure search paths in security-critical software, emphasizing the need for secure handling of COM references and registry permissions.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to the integrity and availability of endpoint protection systems. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to maintain persistence on critical endpoints by hijacking COM references, potentially disabling or circumventing security controls. This could lead to prolonged undetected presence of malware or unauthorized access, increasing the risk of data breaches, ransomware attacks, or sabotage. Organizations in sectors with high security requirements such as finance, healthcare, energy, and government are particularly at risk. The medium CVSS score indicates that while confidentiality is not directly impacted, the ability to undermine endpoint protection integrity can have cascading effects on overall network security. Additionally, since the vulnerability requires local access, it may be exploited in scenarios involving insider threats or after initial compromise through other vectors. The lack of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers often develop exploits for such vulnerabilities post-disclosure. European entities using Broadcom Symantec Endpoint Protection should assess their exposure and prioritize remediation to prevent exploitation that could disrupt critical operations or lead to data loss.

1. Apply the latest patches from Broadcom for Symantec Endpoint Protection Windows Client, specifically versions 14.3 RU10 Patch 1, RU9 Patch 2, or RU8 Patch 3 or later. 2. Conduct a thorough audit of COM-related registry keys to detect unauthorized modifications or suspicious entries that could indicate hijacking attempts. 3. Implement strict access control policies on registry keys associated with COM objects to limit modification rights to trusted administrators only. 4. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring registry changes and COM object loading behavior to detect potential hijacking activities. 5. Enforce the principle of least privilege for users and processes to reduce the likelihood of local privilege exploitation. 6. Educate IT and security teams about the risks of COM hijacking and the importance of monitoring persistence mechanisms. 7. Regularly review and update security policies to include checks for vulnerabilities related to search path manipulation and COM object security. 8. In environments where patching may be delayed, consider temporary compensating controls such as application whitelisting and enhanced monitoring of endpoint security software behavior.