CVE-2025-36511 is a vulnerability identified in Intel(R) Memory and Storage Tool prior to version 2.5.2. The root cause is incorrect default permissions set on components running in Ring 3 (user mode), which can be abused by an authenticated local user to escalate privileges. The attack requires high complexity and active user interaction, meaning an adversary must have local access and engage the user to trigger the exploit. The vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the tool itself at a high level, but does not directly compromise the entire system beyond the scope of the tool. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 5.4, reflecting medium severity, with attack vector local, high attack complexity, privileges required are low, and user interaction required. No known public exploits exist yet, but the vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks against systems using Intel's storage management software. The flaw likely stems from overly permissive file or resource permissions that allow privilege escalation within the context of the tool's operation. This can lead to unauthorized access or modification of sensitive data managed by the tool or disruption of its availability. Intel has published the vulnerability with a recommendation to upgrade to version 2.5.2 or later to remediate the issue.

The vulnerability allows a local authenticated user to escalate privileges within the Intel Memory and Storage Tool environment, potentially gaining elevated rights that could compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data managed by the tool. While the impact is confined to the tool's context and does not directly affect the entire operating system, attackers could leverage this to manipulate storage configurations, access sensitive storage metadata, or disrupt storage management operations. This could lead to data exposure, unauthorized data modification, or denial of service conditions affecting storage management. Organizations relying on Intel Memory and Storage Tool for critical storage infrastructure management, especially in enterprise and data center environments, face risks of insider threats or targeted local attacks. The requirement for local access and user interaction limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk in environments where multiple users have access or where attackers gain foothold via other means. The medium severity rating reflects these factors, indicating a moderate but non-trivial risk to affected systems.

To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should immediately upgrade Intel Memory and Storage Tool to version 2.5.2 or later, where the default permissions issue has been corrected. Additionally, restrict local user access to systems running the tool to trusted personnel only, minimizing the risk of malicious local users exploiting the flaw. Implement strict access controls and monitoring on systems with Intel storage management software to detect unusual privilege escalation attempts. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to identify suspicious activities related to the tool. Regularly audit file and resource permissions associated with the tool to ensure they conform to least privilege principles. Educate users about the risks of interacting with untrusted applications or prompts that could trigger the vulnerability. In environments with shared access, consider isolating critical storage management functions to dedicated administrative workstations. Finally, maintain up-to-date system and application patching processes to quickly address similar vulnerabilities in the future.