CVE-2025-47181 is a high-severity local privilege escalation vulnerability affecting the Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) Updater, specifically version 1.0.0.0. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-59, which relates to improper link resolution before file access, commonly known as 'link following'. This flaw arises when the updater improperly resolves symbolic links or shortcuts before accessing files, potentially allowing an authorized local attacker to manipulate the file path resolution process. By exploiting this, an attacker with limited privileges can trick the updater into accessing or modifying files outside its intended scope, thereby elevating their privileges on the system. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 8.8, indicating high severity, with the vector string AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:H. This means the attack requires local access with low complexity, low privileges, and no user interaction, but results in a complete compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability with scope change. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the potential impact is significant due to the critical nature of the Edge Updater component, which runs with elevated privileges to update the browser. Improper link resolution can allow attackers to overwrite or replace critical system or application files, leading to persistent code execution or system compromise. The vulnerability was published on May 22, 2025, and no patches or mitigations have been linked yet, emphasizing the need for immediate attention from affected users and administrators.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk, especially in environments where Microsoft Edge is widely deployed and regularly updated via the affected updater version. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to gain elevated privileges locally, bypassing standard security controls and potentially leading to full system compromise. This can result in unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of business operations, and the deployment of further malware or ransomware. Given the critical role of browsers in enterprise workflows and the frequent use of Edge in corporate environments, exploitation could facilitate lateral movement within networks. Additionally, the vulnerability's ability to compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability simultaneously makes it a prime target for attackers aiming to disrupt services or exfiltrate data. European organizations in sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, which often have stringent regulatory requirements for data protection, could face severe compliance and reputational consequences if exploited.

Immediate mitigation steps should include restricting local access to systems running the vulnerable Microsoft Edge Updater version 1.0.0.0 to trusted users only, minimizing the attack surface. Organizations should implement strict file system permissions and monitor for suspicious symbolic link or shortcut creations that could be used to exploit this vulnerability. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect anomalous behaviors related to the updater process. Until an official patch is released, consider disabling automatic updates for Microsoft Edge where feasible and perform manual updates from trusted sources. Regularly audit and harden local user privileges to ensure that users do not have unnecessary rights that could facilitate exploitation. Additionally, implement robust logging and alerting mechanisms to detect attempts to exploit link following vulnerabilities. Finally, maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from potential compromises.