CVE-2025-4618 is a vulnerability categorized under CWE-316, which involves the cleartext storage of sensitive information in memory within Palo Alto Networks Prisma Browser version 142.15.6.0. The vulnerability allows a locally authenticated user with non-administrative privileges to retrieve sensitive data from the browser's memory. This occurs because the Prisma Browser does not adequately protect sensitive information in memory, leaving it exposed in cleartext form. The flaw does not require elevated privileges beyond local user access, nor does it require user interaction, making it easier for an insider or a compromised low-privilege account to exploit. The vulnerability has a CVSS 4.4 score, reflecting a medium severity level, with attack vector local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required beyond local user (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), and high impact on confidentiality (C:H) but low impact on integrity and availability. No patches or exploits are currently publicly available, but Palo Alto Networks recommends enabling browser self-protection features to mitigate the risk. The vulnerability could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data such as authentication tokens, session information, or other confidential material stored by the Prisma Browser, potentially facilitating further attacks or data breaches.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily through insider threats or attackers who have gained local access to user machines running Prisma Browser. Sensitive information disclosure can lead to compromise of user credentials, session tokens, or other confidential data, enabling lateral movement within networks or escalation of privileges. Organizations in sectors with strict data protection regulations such as finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure could face compliance violations and reputational damage if sensitive data is leaked. The medium severity indicates that while the vulnerability is not trivially exploitable remotely, the impact on confidentiality is significant. Given the widespread use of Palo Alto Networks security products in Europe, especially in enterprise and government environments, the risk is non-negligible. The lack of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate threat but does not eliminate the risk of targeted attacks or insider misuse.

European organizations should immediately verify if Prisma Browser version 142.15.6.0 is in use and restrict local user access to systems running this software. Enabling the browser's self-protection features is critical as recommended by Palo Alto Networks, as this can prevent unauthorized memory access. Implement strict endpoint security controls, including application whitelisting and user privilege management, to limit the ability of non-admin users to access sensitive browser memory. Regularly monitor and audit local user activities and memory access patterns for suspicious behavior. If possible, isolate Prisma Browser usage to dedicated, controlled environments with minimal user access. Stay alert for vendor patches or updates addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once available. Additionally, educate users about the risks of local access and enforce strong physical and logical access controls to prevent unauthorized presence on endpoints.