CVE-2025-24994 is a high-severity vulnerability classified under CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) affecting Microsoft Windows 11 version 22H2 (build 10.0.22621.0). The vulnerability resides in the Windows Cross Device Service, a component designed to facilitate communication and synchronization between devices. Due to improper access control, an authorized attacker with local access can exploit this flaw to elevate their privileges on the affected system. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.3 reflects a high severity, indicating significant impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attack vector is local (AV:L), requiring low attack complexity (AC:L) and privileges (PR:L), but user interaction is required (UI:R). The scope remains unchanged (S:U), meaning the exploit affects only the vulnerable component and does not extend to other system components. Successful exploitation can lead to full compromise of the affected system, allowing the attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, access sensitive data, and disrupt system operations. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet, suggesting that mitigation efforts are either in progress or pending release. This vulnerability highlights a critical weakness in access control mechanisms within a core Windows service, emphasizing the need for timely remediation to prevent local privilege escalation attacks.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially in environments where Windows 11 version 22H2 is widely deployed. Local privilege escalation can allow attackers who have gained limited access—via phishing, insider threats, or other means—to escalate their privileges and gain full control over affected systems. This can lead to data breaches, disruption of critical services, and lateral movement within corporate networks. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure, which rely heavily on Windows-based systems, could face severe operational and reputational damage. Additionally, the requirement for user interaction and local access means that endpoints with multiple users or shared access points are particularly vulnerable. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently provides a window for organizations to proactively address the issue before widespread exploitation occurs.

1. Monitor for official patches from Microsoft and prioritize their deployment as soon as they become available. 2. Implement strict access controls and limit local user privileges to the minimum necessary, reducing the pool of users who can exploit this vulnerability. 3. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect and block suspicious privilege escalation attempts. 4. Conduct regular audits of user accounts and permissions, removing or restricting unnecessary local administrative rights. 5. Educate users about the risks of social engineering and the importance of not executing untrusted code or links, as user interaction is required for exploitation. 6. Isolate critical systems and sensitive environments to minimize the impact of a compromised endpoint. 7. Use multi-factor authentication and robust logging to detect and respond to anomalous activities promptly. 8. Consider deploying Windows Defender Exploit Guard or similar technologies to harden the system against privilege escalation attacks.