CVE-2025-14497 is a local privilege escalation vulnerability identified in RealDefense SUPERAntiSpyware version 10.0.1276 Free Edition. The vulnerability stems from an exposed dangerous function within the SAS Core Service component of the software. This flaw allows an attacker who has already gained the ability to execute code with low privileges on the affected system to escalate their privileges to SYSTEM level, the highest level of privilege on Windows systems. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-749, which relates to exposed dangerous methods or functions that can be abused to compromise system security. Exploitation requires no user interaction but does require prior local code execution, meaning an attacker must first find a way to run code with limited privileges on the target machine. Once exploited, the attacker can execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM privileges, potentially leading to full system compromise, including unauthorized access to sensitive data, modification of system files, and disruption of system availability. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.0 base score of 7.8, reflecting its high severity due to the combination of local attack vector, low attack complexity, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. As of the publication date, no known exploits have been observed in the wild, and no official patches have been released by the vendor. The vulnerability was assigned by the Zero Day Initiative (ZDI) under the identifier ZDI-CAN-27680.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, particularly to those using RealDefense SUPERAntiSpyware version 10.0.1276 Free Edition on Windows endpoints. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to gain SYSTEM-level privileges, enabling them to bypass security controls, access sensitive corporate data, install persistent malware, or disrupt critical services. This could lead to data breaches, operational downtime, and regulatory non-compliance, especially under GDPR requirements for protecting personal data. The requirement for prior local code execution means that attackers might leverage other vulnerabilities or social engineering to gain initial access, then escalate privileges using this flaw. Organizations with large numbers of endpoints running this software, especially in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government, could face elevated risks. The absence of a patch increases the urgency for interim mitigations to prevent exploitation. The impact extends beyond individual systems, as compromised endpoints can serve as footholds for lateral movement within networks, amplifying the threat.

1. Restrict local code execution privileges by enforcing strict application whitelisting and endpoint protection policies to prevent untrusted code from running. 2. Monitor and audit SAS Core Service activity and logs for unusual behavior indicative of exploitation attempts, such as unexpected privilege escalations or process injections. 3. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting privilege escalation techniques and anomalous system calls related to the SAS Core Service. 4. Isolate systems running vulnerable versions of SUPERAntiSpyware from critical network segments to limit potential lateral movement. 5. Educate users and administrators on the risks of executing untrusted code and the importance of maintaining updated security posture. 6. Engage with the vendor for timely patch releases and apply updates immediately upon availability. 7. Consider temporarily disabling or uninstalling SUPERAntiSpyware on critical systems if feasible until a patch is released. 8. Implement multi-factor authentication and least privilege principles to reduce the impact of compromised accounts that could facilitate local code execution.