CVE-2025-14605 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-427 (Uncontrolled Search Path Element) found in Altera Quartus Prime Pro software versions 17.0 through 25.1.1 on Windows platforms, specifically within the System Console modules. The vulnerability arises because the software improperly controls the search order for loading executables or dynamic link libraries (DLLs), allowing an attacker to influence which files are loaded by placing malicious files in directories that are searched before the legitimate ones. This search order hijacking can lead to the execution of arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected process. The CVSS 4.0 vector indicates that exploitation requires local access (AV:L), high attack complexity (AC:H), partial authentication (AT:P), low privileges (PR:L), and user interaction (UI:A). The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability at a high level (VC:H, VI:H, VA:H), but does not involve scope changes or systemic impact beyond the local system. No patches or known exploits are currently available, indicating the vulnerability is newly disclosed and not yet weaponized in the wild. The issue is critical for environments where Quartus Prime Pro is used for FPGA design and system development, as compromise could lead to intellectual property theft, sabotage, or further lateral movement within a network. The vulnerability is particularly relevant in Windows-based development environments where users may have limited but non-administrative privileges.

For European organizations, especially those involved in semiconductor design, embedded systems, and critical infrastructure relying on Altera Quartus Prime Pro, this vulnerability poses a risk of local privilege escalation and code execution. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive design files, intellectual property theft, or sabotage of FPGA configurations. This could disrupt production timelines, cause financial losses, and damage reputations. The requirement for local access and user interaction limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate insider threats or risks from compromised endpoints. Organizations with distributed engineering teams using Windows workstations for FPGA development are particularly vulnerable. The impact extends to supply chain security, as compromised design environments could propagate malicious alterations downstream. Given the medium severity, the vulnerability demands timely attention to prevent escalation into more severe breaches.

To mitigate CVE-2025-14605, European organizations should implement strict user privilege management, ensuring that only trusted users have access to systems running Quartus Prime Pro. Environment variables and system PATH settings should be audited and locked down to prevent unauthorized modification that could influence search paths. Employ application whitelisting and integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized changes to executable or DLL files. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to monitor for suspicious local activity indicative of search order hijacking attempts. Encourage secure development practices, including running Quartus Prime Pro in isolated or sandboxed environments where possible. Regularly review and update security policies related to software installation and execution. Although no patches are currently available, maintain close communication with the vendor for updates and apply patches promptly once released. Conduct user training to reduce risky behaviors that could facilitate exploitation, such as running untrusted software or opening unknown files.