CVE-2025-53802 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 affecting the Windows Bluetooth Service component in Microsoft Windows Server 2022 (build 10.0.20348.0). Use-after-free vulnerabilities occur when a program continues to use memory after it has been freed, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or privilege escalation. In this case, an authorized local attacker with low privileges can exploit the flaw to elevate their privileges to higher levels, potentially SYSTEM or administrator level, without requiring user interaction. The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.0, indicating high severity, with the vector AV:L/AC:H/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H, meaning the attack requires local access, high attack complexity, low privileges, no user interaction, unchanged scope, and impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability to a high degree. Although no known exploits are currently in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the critical nature of privilege escalation on server systems. The Bluetooth Service is a core Windows component managing Bluetooth device communications, and exploitation could allow attackers to bypass security controls and gain full control over the server. The vulnerability was reserved in July 2025 and published in September 2025, with no patches publicly available yet, emphasizing the need for vigilance and proactive mitigation. This vulnerability is particularly concerning for environments where Windows Server 2022 is deployed in critical roles, such as domain controllers, application servers, or infrastructure management systems.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-53802 can be severe. Successful exploitation allows attackers to escalate privileges locally, potentially leading to full system compromise. This can result in unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of critical services, and the ability to deploy further attacks such as ransomware or lateral movement within networks. Organizations relying on Windows Server 2022 for critical infrastructure, cloud services, or enterprise applications face increased risk of operational disruption and data breaches. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems can be compromised, affecting business continuity and compliance with data protection regulations like GDPR. The requirement for local access limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, as insider threats or attackers who have gained initial footholds can leverage this vulnerability to deepen their control. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not preclude future exploitation, especially as attackers often develop exploits rapidly after vulnerability disclosure.

1. Monitor Microsoft’s official channels for patches addressing CVE-2025-53802 and apply them promptly once released. 2. Restrict local access to Windows Server 2022 systems, limiting user accounts with local login privileges to trusted personnel only. 3. Disable or restrict the Windows Bluetooth Service on servers where Bluetooth functionality is not required to reduce the attack surface. 4. Implement strict access controls and use endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior related to privilege escalation attempts. 5. Employ network segmentation to isolate critical servers and limit lateral movement opportunities for attackers who gain local access. 6. Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments focusing on privilege escalation vectors. 7. Educate system administrators and users about the risks of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities and enforce the principle of least privilege. 8. Use application whitelisting and enhanced logging to detect and respond to suspicious activities promptly. 9. Prepare incident response plans that include scenarios involving local privilege escalation to ensure rapid containment and remediation.