CVE-2025-30033 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-427 (Uncontrolled Search Path Element) affecting Siemens Automation License Manager V6.0. The flaw resides in the setup component responsible for installing applications that utilize this license manager. Specifically, the setup process improperly handles DLL loading paths, allowing an attacker to place a malicious DLL in a location that the installer searches before the legitimate DLL. When a legitimate user initiates installation, the malicious DLL is loaded and executed with the user's privileges, enabling arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability requires local access and user interaction (running the installer), but no prior privileges or authentication are necessary. The CVSS v3.1 score is 7.8 (high), reflecting the potential for complete compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the nature of DLL hijacking makes it a plausible attack vector, especially in environments where users install or update software frequently. Siemens Automation License Manager is widely used in industrial automation environments to manage software licenses, making this vulnerability particularly relevant to operational technology (OT) environments. The lack of a patch at the time of publication increases the urgency for mitigations. The vulnerability's exploitation could lead to unauthorized control over critical industrial systems, potentially disrupting manufacturing processes or causing safety hazards.

For European organizations, especially those in manufacturing, energy, and critical infrastructure sectors relying on Siemens automation products, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the installing user, potentially leading to system compromise, data theft, or disruption of industrial processes. Given the integration of Siemens Automation License Manager in many industrial environments, the impact extends beyond IT systems to operational technology, increasing the risk of physical damage or safety incidents. The requirement for local access and user interaction somewhat limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, as insider threats or social engineering could facilitate attack vectors. The high CVSS score reflects the broad impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, making this a critical concern for maintaining operational continuity and compliance with European cybersecurity regulations such as NIS2. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not preclude future attacks, especially as threat actors often target industrial control systems.

1. Immediately restrict DLL search paths during installation by configuring the system to use fully qualified paths or safe DLL search modes (e.g., SetDllDirectory or SafeDllSearchMode). 2. Enforce strict access controls on directories used during installation to prevent unauthorized placement of DLLs. 3. Educate users and administrators to avoid running untrusted installers or software updates without verification. 4. Monitor installation activities and audit logs for suspicious DLL loading or unexpected file placements. 5. Implement application whitelisting to prevent execution of unauthorized DLLs or binaries during installation. 6. Coordinate with Siemens for timely patch releases and apply updates as soon as they become available. 7. Use endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting DLL hijacking attempts and anomalous process behavior. 8. In industrial environments, isolate license management systems from general IT networks to reduce exposure. 9. Regularly review and harden the software supply chain and installation procedures to minimize risk of DLL hijacking. 10. Prepare incident response plans specifically addressing potential exploitation of this vulnerability in OT environments.