CVE-2025-14496 is a high-severity local privilege escalation vulnerability identified in RealDefense SUPERAntiSpyware version 10.0.1276 Free Edition. The root cause is an exposed dangerous function within the SAS Core Service component, which improperly allows local attackers who already have limited code execution capabilities to escalate their privileges to SYSTEM level. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-749, indicating exposure of dangerous methods or functions that should not be accessible. An attacker must first gain low-privileged code execution on the target system, which could be achieved through other vulnerabilities or social engineering. Once exploited, the attacker can execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM privileges, compromising the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system. The vulnerability does not require user interaction and has a low attack complexity, making it a significant threat if local access is obtained. Although no public exploits are currently known, the high CVSS score of 7.8 reflects the potential severity. The vulnerability was reserved and published in December 2025, and no patches are currently listed, indicating that organizations should be vigilant and prepare for remediation. The SAS Core Service is a critical component of the SUPERAntiSpyware product, and its compromise can undermine endpoint security defenses.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to endpoint security, especially for those relying on RealDefense SUPERAntiSpyware version 10.0.1276 Free Edition. Successful exploitation allows attackers to gain SYSTEM-level privileges, enabling full control over affected machines. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, installation of persistent malware, disruption of security services, and lateral movement within networks. Critical sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government agencies could face severe operational and reputational damage. The requirement for prior local code execution limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, as attackers often chain vulnerabilities. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate threat but also means organizations should proactively mitigate. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, potentially enabling data breaches, system manipulation, and denial of service. Organizations with inadequate endpoint protection or those using outdated software versions are particularly vulnerable.

1. Monitor RealDefense communications closely for official patches or updates addressing CVE-2025-14496 and apply them promptly once available. 2. Restrict local user permissions rigorously to minimize the risk of low-privileged code execution on endpoints. 3. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect and block suspicious local activities related to SAS Core Service. 4. Conduct regular audits of installed software versions across the enterprise to identify and remediate vulnerable SUPERAntiSpyware installations. 5. Implement network segmentation to limit lateral movement if a local compromise occurs. 6. Educate users on phishing and social engineering tactics to reduce initial foothold risks. 7. Use host-based firewalls and disable unnecessary services to reduce attack surface. 8. Maintain comprehensive logging and monitoring to detect privilege escalation attempts. 9. Consider alternative anti-malware solutions if patching is delayed or unsupported. 10. Prepare incident response plans specifically addressing local privilege escalation scenarios.