CVE-2025-22838 is a medium-severity vulnerability identified in Intel(R) RealSense(TM) Dynamic Calibrator software versions prior to 2.14.2.0. The vulnerability arises from an uncontrolled search path issue, which can be exploited by an authenticated local user to escalate privileges. Specifically, the software does not properly control the directories it searches when loading components or libraries, potentially allowing a malicious actor with limited privileges to influence the loading process by placing crafted files in certain locations. This can lead to execution of arbitrary code with higher privileges than initially granted. The CVSS 4.0 vector indicates that the attack requires local access (AV:L), high attack complexity (AC:H), privileges required are low (PR:L), and user interaction is required (UI:A). The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability at a high level (VC:H, VI:H, VA:H), but does not affect system confidentiality or integrity scope (SC:N, SI:N) and does not allow privilege escalation beyond the local system (SA:N). No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches or mitigations have been explicitly linked in the provided data. The vulnerability is specific to Intel's RealSense Dynamic Calibrator software, which is used in conjunction with Intel RealSense camera systems for dynamic calibration tasks, often in robotics, industrial automation, and advanced imaging applications.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability depends largely on the deployment of Intel RealSense technology within their environments. Organizations using RealSense cameras for automation, robotics, or advanced imaging could face risks where an authenticated local user—such as an employee or contractor with limited access—could escalate privileges and potentially gain unauthorized control over systems managing sensitive operations. This could lead to unauthorized data access, manipulation of calibration processes affecting device accuracy, or disruption of automated workflows. In sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, or research institutions that rely on precise sensor data, such an escalation could compromise operational integrity and safety. Although exploitation requires local access and user interaction, insider threats or compromised user accounts could leverage this vulnerability to expand their control. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the presence of a medium-severity privilege escalation vulnerability warrants proactive mitigation to prevent potential lateral movement or privilege abuse within networks.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should prioritize updating Intel RealSense Dynamic Calibrator software to version 2.14.2.0 or later, where the uncontrolled search path issue is resolved. In environments where immediate patching is not feasible, organizations should enforce strict local user access controls, limiting the number of users with authenticated local access to systems running the vulnerable software. Implement application whitelisting and integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized changes or suspicious file placements in directories used by the software. Additionally, employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for unusual privilege escalation attempts. Network segmentation can also reduce the risk of lateral movement if a local compromise occurs. Regularly audit user privileges and enforce the principle of least privilege to minimize the impact of any successful exploitation. Finally, maintain awareness of vendor advisories for any forthcoming patches or additional mitigation guidance.