CVE-2025-24994 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) found in the Windows Cross Device Service component of Microsoft Windows 11 version 22H2 (build 10.0.22621.0). The flaw allows an authorized local attacker to elevate privileges on the affected system. Specifically, the Cross Device Service fails to enforce proper access control checks, enabling a user with limited privileges to gain higher-level permissions, potentially SYSTEM-level. The CVSS v3.1 score is 7.3 (high), reflecting the vulnerability's significant impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attack vector is local (AV:L), requiring low attack complexity (AC:L) and privileges (PR:L), with user interaction (UI:R) needed. The scope remains unchanged (S:U), meaning the vulnerability affects only the vulnerable component and not other system components. The vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, modify or delete sensitive data, or disrupt system availability. No public exploits have been reported yet, and no patches are linked in the provided data, indicating that organizations should monitor vendor advisories closely. The vulnerability was reserved in late January 2025 and published in March 2025, with enrichment from CISA, highlighting its significance. The Cross Device Service is a Windows component facilitating device interoperability, making this vulnerability relevant for environments using Windows 11 22H2, especially in enterprise and critical infrastructure contexts.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-24994 can be substantial. Successful exploitation allows attackers with local access to escalate privileges, potentially gaining administrative control over affected systems. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive corporate data, disruption of critical services, and the deployment of persistent malware or ransomware. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure are particularly at risk due to the sensitive nature of their data and the criticality of their operations. The vulnerability's requirement for local access means that attackers may leverage social engineering, phishing, or insider threats to gain initial footholds. Once elevated privileges are obtained, attackers can bypass security controls, disable defenses, and move laterally within networks. The lack of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk but also means organizations must act proactively before exploitation attempts emerge. The vulnerability could also impact compliance with European data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR) if exploited to access or exfiltrate personal data.

1. Monitor Microsoft security advisories closely and apply official patches or updates for Windows 11 version 22H2 as soon as they become available to remediate the vulnerability. 2. Restrict local access to critical systems by enforcing strict physical security controls and limiting user permissions to the minimum necessary. 3. Implement robust endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect unusual privilege escalation attempts or suspicious activities related to the Cross Device Service. 4. Conduct regular audits of user accounts and privileges to identify and remove unnecessary elevated permissions. 5. Educate users on the risks of social engineering and phishing attacks that could provide attackers with initial local access. 6. Use application whitelisting and privilege management tools to limit the execution of unauthorized code and reduce the attack surface. 7. Employ network segmentation to isolate critical systems and limit lateral movement opportunities for attackers who gain local access. 8. Maintain comprehensive logging and monitoring to facilitate rapid incident detection and response.