CVE-2025-32038 is a vulnerability identified in the Intel oneAPI DPC++C++ Compiler software, specifically affecting versions before 2025.0.1. The root cause is an uncontrolled search path within the FPGA Support Package component operating in Ring 3 (user space). This flaw allows an unprivileged, authenticated local user to escalate their privileges by exploiting the way the software loads or searches for certain resources or libraries. The attack requires high complexity and active user interaction, meaning the attacker must have local access and engage with the system, but does not require special internal knowledge. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability at a high level within the vulnerable system context, potentially allowing unauthorized access or modification of sensitive data and disruption of system operations. The CVSS 4.0 score is 5.4 (medium severity), reflecting the local attack vector, high complexity, required privileges, and user interaction. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, but the risk remains significant for environments using affected Intel oneAPI compiler versions, especially in FPGA development workflows. The vulnerability does not affect system-wide confidentiality, integrity, or availability beyond the local context. Intel has reserved and published this CVE, but no patch links are currently provided, indicating that users should monitor for updates or apply vendor guidance once available.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-32038 can be significant in sectors relying on FPGA development and Intel oneAPI toolchains, such as telecommunications, automotive, aerospace, and industrial automation. Successful exploitation could allow a local attacker to gain elevated privileges, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive intellectual property, modification of critical FPGA configurations, or disruption of development environments. This could result in compromised product integrity, delays in development cycles, and exposure of proprietary data. The requirement for local access and user interaction limits remote exploitation risk but does not eliminate insider threats or risks from compromised endpoints. Given the high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impact within the affected system, organizations may face operational disruptions and reputational damage if exploited. The medium CVSS score suggests moderate urgency, but the specialized nature of the software means affected organizations should prioritize mitigation to protect critical development assets.

1. Immediately upgrade Intel oneAPI DPC++C++ Compiler software to version 2025.0.1 or later once available to eliminate the vulnerability. 2. Restrict local system access to trusted and authenticated users only, minimizing the risk of insider threats or unauthorized local access. 3. Implement strict user privilege management and monitoring on development machines to detect unusual privilege escalation attempts. 4. Employ application whitelisting and integrity verification on FPGA Support Package components to prevent unauthorized modifications or loading of malicious libraries. 5. Conduct regular security awareness training for developers and users interacting with the Intel oneAPI environment to reduce the risk of social engineering or inadvertent activation of the vulnerability. 6. Monitor vendor advisories for patches or additional guidance and apply them promptly. 7. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to identify suspicious local activities indicative of privilege escalation attempts. 8. Isolate FPGA development environments where feasible to limit lateral movement in case of compromise.