CVE-2025-14494 is a local privilege escalation vulnerability identified in RealDefense SUPERAntiSpyware Free Edition version 10.0.1276. The vulnerability stems from an exposed dangerous function within the SAS Core Service component. This flaw allows an attacker who already has the ability to execute code with low privileges on the affected system to escalate their privileges to SYSTEM level, effectively gaining full control over the system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-749, indicating that a dangerous method or function is exposed, which should not be accessible or callable by unprivileged users. The CVSS v3.0 score is 7.8, reflecting high severity due to the potential for complete system compromise (confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts are all high). Exploitation requires local access and low privileges but does not require user interaction, making it a significant risk if an attacker can execute code locally, for example, through another vulnerability or social engineering. The vulnerability was published on December 23, 2025, and no public exploits are known at this time. The lack of a patch link suggests that a fix may not yet be available, emphasizing the need for vigilance and interim mitigations. The SAS Core Service's exposed dangerous function could be leveraged to execute arbitrary code in the context of the SYSTEM user, which is the highest privilege level on Windows systems. This could allow attackers to install malware, steal sensitive data, or disrupt system operations.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant threat, particularly to those using RealDefense SUPERAntiSpyware version 10.0.1276 Free Edition on their endpoints. Successful exploitation would allow attackers to gain SYSTEM-level privileges, potentially leading to full system compromise. This could result in unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of critical services, and the deployment of persistent malware or ransomware. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure are especially at risk due to the potential impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The requirement for local code execution means that initial compromise vectors could include phishing, exploitation of other local vulnerabilities, or insider threats. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate it, as attackers may develop exploits rapidly once the vulnerability is public. The impact is amplified in environments where endpoint protection software is widely deployed and trusted, as attackers could leverage this trust to bypass security controls.

1. Monitor RealDefense communications and security advisories closely for official patches or updates addressing CVE-2025-14494 and apply them promptly once available. 2. Restrict local code execution capabilities by enforcing strict application whitelisting and least privilege principles to reduce the risk of initial low-privileged code execution. 3. Implement robust endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect suspicious activities indicative of privilege escalation attempts. 4. Conduct regular audits of installed software versions across the enterprise to identify and inventory vulnerable instances of SUPERAntiSpyware. 5. Employ network segmentation and access controls to limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 6. Educate users and administrators about the risks of executing untrusted code and the importance of maintaining updated endpoint protection software. 7. Consider temporary removal or replacement of the affected software if patching is not immediately possible, especially in high-risk environments. 8. Harden systems by disabling unnecessary services and functions that could be leveraged for local code execution or privilege escalation.