CVE-2025-24491 is an escalation of privilege vulnerability identified in Intel(R) Killer(TM) Performance Suite software prior to version 4.0 40.25.509.1465. The root cause is an uncontrolled search path within user-mode (Ring 3) applications, which can be exploited by an unprivileged but authenticated local user. This vulnerability allows an adversary to escalate privileges on the affected system by leveraging the software's improper handling of DLL or executable search paths, potentially loading malicious code or binaries. Exploitation requires a high level of attack complexity and active user interaction, such as convincing the user to execute a crafted file or perform a specific action. No special internal knowledge is needed, but the attacker must have local access and be authenticated. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability at a high level on the vulnerable system, potentially allowing unauthorized access to sensitive data, modification of system files, or disruption of services. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 5.4 (medium severity), reflecting the local attack vector, high complexity, required privileges, and user interaction. No known exploits have been reported in the wild as of the publication date, but the vulnerability poses a risk especially in environments where local user accounts have limited restrictions. Intel Killer Performance Suite is commonly installed on gaming and high-performance network hardware, often used in consumer and enterprise environments that prioritize network optimization. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure software design, especially in handling search paths to prevent DLL hijacking or similar attacks.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized privilege escalation on systems running vulnerable versions of Intel Killer Performance Suite software. This can compromise system confidentiality, integrity, and availability, potentially allowing attackers to access sensitive information, alter system configurations, or disrupt network performance. Organizations with many local users or shared workstations are at higher risk, as local authenticated access is a prerequisite. The impact is particularly significant in sectors relying on high-performance networking hardware, such as gaming companies, media production, and enterprises with performance-optimized networks. Although exploitation complexity is high and requires user interaction, successful attacks could facilitate lateral movement or persistence within corporate networks. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits over time. Failure to patch could expose organizations to insider threats or malware leveraging this vulnerability to escalate privileges and compromise systems.

European organizations should immediately verify the presence of Intel(R) Killer(TM) Performance Suite software and its version on all endpoints, especially those used in high-performance or gaming contexts. Upgrade all affected systems to version 4.0 40.25.509.1465 or later, once patches are available from Intel. Until patches are deployed, restrict local user permissions to the minimum necessary and enforce strict application whitelisting to prevent execution of unauthorized binaries. Educate users to avoid executing untrusted files or performing suspicious actions that could trigger exploitation. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for unusual DLL loading or privilege escalation attempts. Regularly audit local user accounts and remove unnecessary privileges. Network segmentation can limit lateral movement if a system is compromised. Finally, maintain up-to-date backups to recover from potential availability impacts.