CVE-2025-27254 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-282 (Improper Ownership Management) affecting GE Vernova's EnerVista UR Setup software version 8.42. The flaw allows an attacker to bypass the software's startup authentication mechanism by modifying a specific Windows registry setting that controls authentication enforcement. Critically, this registry key is writable by any user on the system, meaning no elevated privileges or prior authentication are required to disable authentication. This improper permission configuration on the registry key leads to an authentication bypass, allowing unauthorized users to gain access to the software's functions that should be protected. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability: unauthorized users can potentially alter configurations, disrupt operations, or gain sensitive information. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 8.0 (high), with vector AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:H/A:H, indicating local attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges or user interaction needed, and high impact on integrity and availability. While no known exploits are currently in the wild, the ease of exploitation and critical nature of the software in industrial control systems make this a serious threat. The vulnerability was published on March 10, 2025, and no official patches have been released yet, emphasizing the need for immediate mitigation steps by system administrators.

For European organizations, especially those in the energy and industrial sectors relying on GE Vernova EnerVista UR Setup, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Unauthorized disabling of authentication can lead to unauthorized access to critical control software, potentially allowing attackers to alter relay settings, disrupt power distribution, or cause operational failures. This can result in service outages, safety hazards, and regulatory non-compliance. The integrity and availability of industrial control systems could be severely compromised, affecting national infrastructure resilience. Given the local attack vector, the threat is particularly concerning for environments where multiple users have access to the same systems or where endpoint security is lax. The potential for cascading effects in interconnected industrial networks amplifies the risk. European organizations must consider the operational impact and potential financial and reputational damage from exploitation.

Immediate mitigation should focus on restricting permissions on the Windows registry keys controlling EnerVista UR Setup authentication to prevent unauthorized modification. System administrators should audit and enforce strict access control lists (ACLs) on these registry keys, ensuring only trusted administrators have write permissions. Implement endpoint protection solutions that monitor and alert on unauthorized registry changes. Network segmentation and limiting local user access to critical control systems can reduce exposure. Until an official patch is released by GE Vernova, organizations should consider disabling or isolating vulnerable instances where feasible. Regularly review user privileges and apply the principle of least privilege to all users with system access. Additionally, maintain comprehensive logging and monitoring of system and registry changes to detect potential exploitation attempts early. Engage with GE Vernova support for updates and apply patches promptly once available.