CVE-2025-20048 is a vulnerability identified in the Intel(R) Trace Analyzer and Collector software, which is used primarily for performance analysis and debugging of parallel applications. The vulnerability arises from an uncontrolled search path mechanism within the software. Specifically, this means that the software does not securely validate or restrict the directories it searches for executable components or libraries, potentially allowing an authenticated local user to influence the loading of malicious code. Exploiting this flaw could enable an attacker with low-level privileges to escalate their privileges on the affected system. The vulnerability requires local access and some user interaction, with a relatively high attack complexity, as indicated by the CVSS vector. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, meaning a successful exploit could lead to significant unauthorized access or system compromise. However, no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and the vulnerability affects all versions of the Intel Trace Analyzer and Collector software, though specific affected versions are referenced elsewhere. The vulnerability does not involve network attack vectors and does not require system-wide authentication beyond low privileges, but user interaction is necessary. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 5.4, categorizing it as a medium severity issue.

For European organizations, especially those involved in high-performance computing, scientific research, and software development that utilize Intel's Trace Analyzer and Collector tools, this vulnerability poses a risk of local privilege escalation. An attacker with authenticated local access could leverage this flaw to gain elevated privileges, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data, modification of critical system components, or disruption of analysis workflows. This could compromise the integrity of performance data and debugging processes, impacting research outcomes or product development cycles. Additionally, if exploited within shared or multi-user environments common in research institutions or enterprises, it could facilitate lateral movement or further attacks. The impact is particularly relevant for organizations with strict compliance requirements around data integrity and access control, as privilege escalation could violate regulatory mandates.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should first ensure that all instances of Intel Trace Analyzer and Collector software are updated to the latest patched versions once Intel releases them. Until patches are available, organizations should restrict local access to systems running this software to trusted users only and enforce strict user privilege management to minimize the risk of exploitation. Implementing application whitelisting and monitoring for unusual process or library loading behaviors can help detect attempts to exploit the uncontrolled search path. Additionally, system administrators should review and harden the environment variables and directory permissions related to the software’s execution paths to prevent unauthorized code injection. Employing endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions that can identify privilege escalation attempts and anomalous local user activities will further enhance security. Regular security audits and user training on the risks of local privilege escalation can also reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation.