CVE-2025-29795 is a high-severity vulnerability classified under CWE-59, which pertains to improper link resolution before file access, commonly known as 'link following'. This vulnerability affects the Microsoft Edge Update Setup component, specifically version 1.0.0.0. The flaw arises when the update setup process improperly resolves symbolic links or shortcuts before accessing files, allowing an authorized local attacker to manipulate the file system paths that the update setup interacts with. By exploiting this, an attacker with limited privileges on the local system can escalate their privileges to higher levels, potentially gaining administrative rights. The vulnerability does not require user interaction and has a low attack complexity, but it does require the attacker to have some level of local access (privileges). The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as the attacker could execute arbitrary code or modify critical files during the update process. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet, indicating that this is a recently disclosed vulnerability. The improper link resolution can lead to arbitrary file overwrites or execution of malicious payloads during the update process, which is a critical phase for maintaining browser security and stability.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk because Microsoft Edge is widely used across enterprises and government institutions. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to gain elevated privileges on affected systems, enabling them to install persistent malware, steal sensitive data, or disrupt operations by modifying or deleting critical files. This is particularly concerning for organizations with strict regulatory requirements around data protection and system integrity, such as those governed by GDPR. The local privilege escalation vector means that attackers who have already gained limited access—through phishing, insider threats, or other means—could leverage this vulnerability to deepen their foothold. This could lead to broader network compromise, lateral movement, and data breaches. The lack of user interaction requirement increases the risk of automated exploitation in compromised environments. The absence of a patch at the time of disclosure means organizations must rely on mitigations and monitoring to reduce risk.

European organizations should implement the following specific mitigations: 1) Restrict local user permissions strictly to the minimum necessary to reduce the pool of users who could exploit this vulnerability. 2) Employ application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions that can detect or block suspicious file system activities related to symbolic link manipulation. 3) Monitor file system changes and update setup processes for unusual behavior, especially in directories used by Microsoft Edge Update. 4) Use Windows security features such as Controlled Folder Access and Windows Defender Exploit Guard to limit unauthorized file modifications. 5) Isolate critical systems and enforce network segmentation to contain potential privilege escalation impacts. 6) Stay alert for official patches or updates from Microsoft and prioritize their deployment as soon as available. 7) Conduct internal audits to identify any unauthorized local access and review logs for indicators of attempted exploitation. 8) Educate users and administrators about the risks of local privilege escalation and the importance of maintaining strict access controls.