CVE-2025-54100 is a command injection vulnerability classified under CWE-77, affecting Windows PowerShell on Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The root cause is improper neutralization of special elements in commands processed by PowerShell, which allows an attacker with local access to inject malicious commands. This vulnerability does not require elevated privileges (PR:N) but does require user interaction (UI:R), such as convincing a user to run a crafted command or script. Successful exploitation enables the attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H), meaning sensitive data can be exposed or altered, and system functionality disrupted. The attack vector is local (AV:L), limiting remote exploitation but still posing a significant risk in environments where local access is possible, such as shared workstations or compromised user accounts. No public exploits are known yet, but the vulnerability is published and rated high severity with a CVSS score of 7.8. The lack of patch links suggests that either patches are forthcoming or users must upgrade to newer Windows versions to mitigate the risk. This vulnerability is particularly concerning for organizations that have not upgraded from Windows 10 Version 1809, which is an older release with extended support ending or ended, increasing exposure risk.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-54100 can be substantial. Many enterprises and public sector entities still operate legacy Windows 10 Version 1809 systems due to compatibility or operational constraints. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, enabling attackers to steal sensitive data, disrupt operations, or establish persistence within networks. Critical infrastructure sectors such as energy, finance, healthcare, and government are especially vulnerable due to the potential for local access by insiders or through social engineering. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that data breaches, ransomware deployment, or sabotage could result from exploitation. The requirement for local access and user interaction somewhat limits the attack surface but does not eliminate risk, particularly in environments with lax endpoint security or insufficient user training. The absence of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the threat remains significant given the high CVSS score and potential damage.

1. Upgrade affected systems from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a supported and patched Windows version, such as Windows 10 21H2 or Windows 11, to eliminate the vulnerability. 2. If upgrading is not immediately possible, apply any interim security updates or workarounds provided by Microsoft once available. 3. Restrict PowerShell usage through Group Policy or application whitelisting to limit execution of unauthorized scripts or commands. 4. Implement strict user privilege management to minimize the ability of standard users to execute potentially harmful commands. 5. Enhance endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious PowerShell activity indicative of command injection attempts. 6. Conduct user awareness training to reduce the risk of social engineering that could trigger user interaction required for exploitation. 7. Regularly audit and harden local access controls on critical systems to prevent unauthorized physical or remote local access. 8. Employ network segmentation to isolate legacy systems and limit lateral movement in case of compromise.