CVE-2025-53799 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-908, indicating the use of an uninitialized resource within the Windows Imaging Component (WIC) on Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The Windows Imaging Component is a system library responsible for image processing and handling various image formats. The flaw arises because certain resources within WIC are not properly initialized before use, which can lead to leakage of residual memory contents. An unauthorized attacker with local access and requiring user interaction can exploit this vulnerability to disclose sensitive information from memory that should otherwise be protected. The vulnerability does not require elevated privileges or authentication, but the attacker must be able to execute code or interact with the system locally. According to the CVSS v3.1 vector (AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N), the attack vector is local, with low attack complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction is necessary. The scope remains unchanged, and the impact is high on confidentiality, with no impact on integrity or availability. No patches or known exploits are currently available, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be addressed promptly. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for environments still running Windows 10 Version 1809, which is an older release with extended support ending or ended in many cases.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-53799 is the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information on systems running Windows 10 Version 1809. This could include leakage of personal data, intellectual property, or other confidential information residing in memory. Since the vulnerability requires local access and user interaction, the risk is higher in environments where untrusted users have physical or remote desktop access to affected machines. Sectors such as government, finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure could be particularly sensitive to information disclosure. The impact on confidentiality could lead to regulatory non-compliance under GDPR if personal data is exposed. Additionally, organizations relying on legacy systems or delayed patching cycles may face increased exposure. Although the vulnerability does not allow remote exploitation or privilege escalation, it could be leveraged as part of a multi-stage attack or insider threat scenario.

European organizations should prioritize upgrading affected systems from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a more recent, supported Windows version with active security updates. If upgrading is not immediately feasible, organizations should implement strict access controls to limit local access to trusted users only. Employing endpoint protection solutions that monitor for suspicious local activity and user behavior analytics can help detect exploitation attempts. User training to avoid executing untrusted code or interacting with suspicious prompts is essential since user interaction is required. Network segmentation and the use of virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) can reduce the risk of local exploitation. Monitoring system logs for unusual activity related to the Windows Imaging Component may provide early warning signs. Finally, organizations should stay alert for official patches or security advisories from Microsoft and apply them promptly once available.