CVE-2025-2272 is a high-severity vulnerability classified under CWE-427 (Uncontrolled Search Path Element) affecting Forcepoint FIE Endpoint versions prior to 25.05. This vulnerability arises when the software improperly controls the search path used to locate executable files or libraries. An attacker with limited privileges on a system can exploit this flaw to escalate their privileges by injecting malicious code or hijacking a privileged process. Specifically, the vulnerability allows an adversary to influence the order or location of directories searched by the application, causing it to load malicious binaries or scripts instead of legitimate ones. This can lead to full compromise of the endpoint, including unauthorized code execution with elevated privileges, potentially resulting in complete system takeover. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.0, indicating a high severity level, with the vector string AV:L/AC:H/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H. This means the attack requires local access, high attack complexity, low privileges, no user interaction, and impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability significantly. No known exploits are reported in the wild yet, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be addressed promptly. The lack of available patches at the time of publication suggests organizations must monitor Forcepoint advisories closely for updates.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-2272 can be substantial, especially those relying on Forcepoint FIE Endpoint for endpoint security and data protection. Successful exploitation could lead to privilege escalation on critical endpoints, allowing attackers to bypass security controls, execute arbitrary code, and potentially move laterally within corporate networks. This threatens the confidentiality of sensitive data, including personal data protected under GDPR, intellectual property, and operational information. Integrity of systems and data could be compromised, leading to unauthorized changes or sabotage. Availability may also be affected if attackers disrupt endpoint functionality or deploy ransomware. Given the high integration of Forcepoint products in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government within Europe, the vulnerability could facilitate targeted attacks against critical infrastructure and high-value targets. The requirement for local access limits remote exploitation but insider threats or initial footholds via phishing or other means could enable attackers to leverage this flaw for privilege escalation and persistence.

European organizations should implement the following specific mitigations: 1) Immediately inventory all endpoints running Forcepoint FIE Endpoint and verify the installed version. 2) Monitor Forcepoint security advisories and apply patches or updates as soon as they become available to remediate this vulnerability. 3) Restrict local access to endpoints by enforcing strict access controls and least privilege principles to minimize the risk of an attacker gaining the required local access. 4) Employ application whitelisting and integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized changes or execution of untrusted binaries in the search path. 5) Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to identify suspicious behavior indicative of privilege escalation or code injection attempts. 6) Educate users and administrators about the risks of local privilege escalation and enforce strong authentication and session management to reduce insider threat risks. 7) Conduct regular security audits and penetration tests focusing on endpoint security to identify and mitigate similar path manipulation vulnerabilities proactively.