CVE-2025-29983 is an Improper Link Resolution Before File Access vulnerability (CWE-59) found in Dell Trusted Device Client versions prior to 7.0.3.0. This vulnerability arises when the software improperly handles symbolic or hard links before accessing files, allowing an attacker with low privileges and local access to manipulate file system links. By exploiting this flaw, an attacker can cause the application to follow a malicious link to a sensitive file or directory, potentially leading to unauthorized file access or modification. This can result in privilege escalation, where the attacker gains higher system privileges than originally granted. The vulnerability requires local access and user interaction, making remote exploitation unlikely without prior compromise. The CVSS v3.1 score of 6.7 indicates a medium severity, with attack vector local (AV:L), attack complexity high (AC:H), privileges required low (PR:L), user interaction required (UI:R), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). No public exploits are known at this time, and no patches are currently linked, suggesting that mitigation relies on vendor updates and local security controls. The vulnerability is particularly relevant for enterprise environments where Dell Trusted Device Client is deployed to secure device authentication and management.

The primary impact of CVE-2025-29983 is privilege escalation on affected systems, which can compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive data and system resources. An attacker who gains local access—potentially through other means such as phishing or insider threat—could exploit this vulnerability to elevate privileges, bypassing security controls and gaining administrative capabilities. This could lead to unauthorized access to protected files, installation of persistent malware, or disruption of security mechanisms. For organizations, this elevates the risk of insider attacks, lateral movement within networks, and potential full system compromise. The vulnerability affects systems running Dell Trusted Device Client, which is commonly used in enterprise environments for device authentication and security. Consequently, organizations relying on this software for endpoint security could face increased risk of targeted attacks, especially in sectors with high security requirements such as government, finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure.

Organizations should monitor Dell’s official channels for patches addressing CVE-2025-29983 and apply updates promptly once available. Until patches are released, implement strict local access controls to limit the number of users with local system access, reducing the attack surface. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions to detect and block suspicious file system activities, including unauthorized link creation or modification. Conduct regular audits of file system permissions and symbolic link usage on systems running Dell Trusted Device Client. Educate users about the risks of local exploitation and enforce least privilege principles to minimize the potential impact of compromised accounts. Additionally, consider deploying host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS) to alert on anomalous file access patterns. For environments with high security requirements, isolate critical systems and restrict physical and remote local access to trusted personnel only. Finally, maintain comprehensive logging and monitoring to detect early signs of exploitation attempts.