CVE-2025-21093 is a medium-severity vulnerability affecting Intel(R) Driver & Support Assistant Tool software versions prior to 24.6.49.8. The vulnerability arises from an uncontrolled search path element, which can be exploited by an authenticated user with local access to escalate privileges on the affected system. Specifically, the flaw allows a user with limited privileges (low privileges) to potentially gain higher privileges by manipulating the search path used by the software to load components or libraries. This type of vulnerability typically occurs when the software does not securely specify the full path to critical resources, allowing an attacker to insert malicious files in locations that are searched earlier by the software, leading to execution of unauthorized code with elevated privileges. The CVSS 4.0 vector indicates that exploitation requires local access (AV:L), high attack complexity (AC:H), no attacker privileges initially (PR:L), and user interaction is required (UI:P). The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (VC:H, VI:H, VA:H), meaning that successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches or mitigations are linked in the provided data, though it is expected that Intel will release updates to address this issue. The vulnerability is specifically tied to Intel's Driver & Support Assistant Tool, which is commonly used to detect and update Intel hardware drivers on Windows systems.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk particularly in environments where Intel hardware and associated management tools are widely deployed. Since the Intel Driver & Support Assistant Tool is often installed on corporate desktops and laptops to maintain driver currency, an attacker with local access (e.g., via compromised user accounts or physical access) could leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and gain administrative control. This could lead to unauthorized installation of malware, data exfiltration, or disruption of critical business operations. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that sensitive corporate data and system stability could be compromised. Organizations in sectors with strict regulatory requirements such as finance, healthcare, and government could face compliance violations and reputational damage if exploited. The requirement for local access and user interaction somewhat limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk in environments where insider threats or lateral movement within networks are possible.

European organizations should prioritize updating the Intel Driver & Support Assistant Tool to version 24.6.49.8 or later as soon as Intel releases the patch. Until then, organizations should implement strict access controls to limit local user privileges and restrict installation or execution of unauthorized software. Employ application whitelisting to prevent execution of untrusted binaries that could exploit the search path weakness. Conduct regular audits of installed software and user permissions to detect anomalous privilege escalations. Additionally, educate users about the risks of interacting with untrusted files or links that could facilitate exploitation. Network segmentation and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions can help detect and contain suspicious activities stemming from privilege escalation attempts. Physical security controls should be enforced to prevent unauthorized local access to critical systems. Finally, monitor Intel’s security advisories for updates and apply patches promptly once available.