CVE-2025-57227 is a vulnerability classified as an unquoted service path issue in Kingosoft Technology Ltd's Kingo ROOT software, specifically version 1.5.8.3353. An unquoted service path occurs when the Windows service executable path contains spaces but is not enclosed in quotation marks. This allows an attacker with local access to place a malicious executable in a directory higher up in the path hierarchy. When the service starts, Windows may execute the attacker's crafted executable instead of the legitimate one, resulting in privilege escalation. This vulnerability leverages the way Windows parses unquoted paths, which can lead to execution of unintended binaries. Kingo ROOT is a tool commonly used for rooting Android devices but also includes Windows components for device management. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require the attacker to have local write access to a parent folder in the service path. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no public exploits are known at this time. However, the risk remains significant due to the nature of privilege escalation vulnerabilities and the potential for attackers to gain SYSTEM-level access. The lack of a patch link suggests that a fix may not yet be available, so mitigation relies on configuration and access control measures.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to endpoint security, particularly for those using Kingo ROOT in device management or rooting contexts. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to escalate privileges from a local user to SYSTEM level, compromising the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems. This could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, installation of persistent malware, or disruption of critical services. Organizations in sectors with high regulatory requirements, such as finance, healthcare, and government, may face compliance risks if exploited. The vulnerability could also facilitate lateral movement within networks, increasing the scope of potential damage. Since Kingo ROOT is often used in mobile device management and development environments, organizations relying on these tools for device provisioning or testing are particularly vulnerable. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits once the vulnerability becomes widely known.

1. Immediately audit all systems running Kingo ROOT version 1.5.8.3353 and identify unquoted service paths using tools such as 'sc qc' or PowerShell scripts. 2. Apply strict NTFS permissions to parent directories of the service executable to prevent unauthorized users from writing files. 3. If possible, update or patch Kingo ROOT once a vendor fix is released; monitor Kingosoft's official channels for updates. 4. As a temporary workaround, manually correct the service path by enclosing it in quotes using the 'sc config' command or registry edits, ensuring Windows correctly parses the path. 5. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious executable creation in service directories. 6. Educate IT staff about the risks of unquoted service paths and enforce least privilege principles to limit local user rights. 7. Regularly review and harden local user permissions to reduce the likelihood of local privilege escalation. 8. Conduct penetration testing and vulnerability assessments focusing on service path vulnerabilities to proactively identify similar issues.