CVE-2025-14740 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-732 (Incorrect Permission Assignment for Critical Resource) affecting Docker Desktop for Windows. The root cause lies in the installer's handling of the C:\ProgramData\DockerDesktop directory, which is created without proper ownership verification or secure ACL application. Two exploitation scenarios exist: (1) Persistent Attack - a low-privileged attacker pre-creates the directory before installation, retaining ownership post-installation, allowing modification of critical configuration files like install-settings.json. By altering the credentialHelper setting, the attacker can achieve arbitrary code execution when Docker Desktop runs. (2) TOCTOU (Time-of-Check-Time-of-Use) Attack - during installation, a race condition allows an attacker monitoring the process to inject malicious files with attacker-controlled ACLs before secure permissions are set, resulting in similar code execution capabilities. The vulnerability requires local access with low privileges and some user interaction (installation execution). The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.7 (medium), reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability but with higher attack complexity and required privileges. No patches or known exploits are currently reported, but the risk remains significant due to the potential for persistent code execution and system compromise.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the security of containerized development and deployment environments relying on Docker Desktop for Windows. Successful exploitation can lead to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the Docker Desktop user, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate container configurations, steal sensitive data, or disrupt operations. Given Docker's widespread use in development, testing, and production workflows, compromise could cascade into broader network and application-level impacts. Persistent control over Docker Desktop configuration files could facilitate supply chain attacks or lateral movement within corporate networks. The requirement for local access limits remote exploitation but insider threats or compromised endpoints remain a concern. Organizations with regulatory obligations around data protection (e.g., GDPR) must consider the confidentiality implications of such breaches. The absence of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive mitigation.

To mitigate CVE-2025-14740, European organizations should implement the following specific measures: 1) Ensure Docker Desktop installations are performed by trusted administrators on secure, monitored endpoints to prevent unauthorized pre-creation or tampering of the C:\ProgramData\DockerDesktop directory. 2) Employ endpoint protection solutions that detect and block unauthorized file system changes, especially during software installations. 3) Use application whitelisting and integrity monitoring to detect modifications to critical Docker configuration files such as install-settings.json. 4) Where possible, perform installations in controlled environments or with elevated privileges that prevent low-privileged users from interfering with installation directories. 5) Monitor installation logs and system events for suspicious activity indicative of TOCTOU exploitation attempts. 6) Advocate for and track vendor patches or updates addressing this vulnerability, applying them promptly once available. 7) Educate users and administrators about the risks of installing software from untrusted sources or under unsecure conditions. 8) Consider restricting Docker Desktop usage to dedicated machines with limited user access to reduce attack surface.