CVE-2025-3224 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Docker Desktop for Windows versions prior to 4.41.0. The flaw resides in the update mechanism of Docker Desktop, specifically in how it handles file and directory deletion under the path C:\ProgramData\Docker\config. During an update, the process runs with elevated privileges (SYSTEM) and attempts to delete files and subdirectories within this path. However, the directory C:\ProgramData\Docker\config often does not exist by default, and the parent directory C:\ProgramData\ is writable by standard users. This allows a local, low-privileged attacker to pre-create a malicious directory structure at C:\ProgramData\Docker\config. When the privileged update process runs, it will recursively delete or manipulate files within this attacker-controlled directory, potentially leading to arbitrary file deletion or modification at the SYSTEM privilege level. This improper privilege management and unsafe handling of directory existence and permissions constitute a classic case of CWE-269 (Improper Privilege Management) and CWE-59 (Improper Link Resolution). Exploiting this vulnerability requires local access with low privileges and some user interaction (triggering the update), but once exploited, it can lead to full SYSTEM privilege escalation, compromising confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the vulnerability’s nature and high CVSS score (7.3) indicate a significant risk if weaponized. The vulnerability affects Windows installations of Docker Desktop, a widely used container management tool, especially in development and DevOps environments.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a serious risk primarily to Windows-based development, testing, and production environments using Docker Desktop. Privilege escalation to SYSTEM can allow attackers to install persistent malware, steal sensitive data, manipulate containerized applications, or disrupt services. Given Docker Desktop’s popularity among software developers and IT teams, exploitation could lead to widespread compromise of internal networks, especially in sectors relying heavily on containerized workflows such as finance, manufacturing, and technology. The ability to escalate privileges locally means that insider threats or attackers who gain initial low-level access (e.g., via phishing or compromised credentials) could leverage this flaw to gain full control of affected systems. This could result in data breaches, operational disruption, and loss of intellectual property. Furthermore, organizations with strict compliance requirements (e.g., GDPR) may face regulatory consequences if this vulnerability leads to data exposure. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the vulnerability’s characteristics suggest it could be targeted soon after public disclosure.

1. Immediate upgrade to Docker Desktop version 4.41.0 or later where the vulnerability is patched. 2. Until patching is possible, restrict write permissions to the C:\ProgramData directory to prevent unprivileged users from creating directories or files there. This can be done via Group Policy or local security policies to harden the directory ACLs. 3. Monitor and audit the C:\ProgramData\Docker\config path for any unexpected directory creation or file changes. Implement file integrity monitoring solutions to alert on suspicious activity. 4. Limit local user privileges and enforce the principle of least privilege to reduce the risk of local exploitation. 5. Educate users and administrators about the risk of running untrusted code or scripts that could trigger Docker Desktop updates. 6. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to detect anomalous behavior related to Docker Desktop update processes. 7. Consider isolating development environments using virtualization or containerization to limit the blast radius of potential exploits. 8. Regularly review and update security policies related to software updates and privilege management on Windows endpoints.