CVE-2025-60865 is a local privilege escalation vulnerability identified in Avanquest Driver Updater version 9.1.57803.1174, specifically within its Windows service component called the Driver Updater Service. The root cause is insecure permissions configured on this service, which allow a local attacker with limited user privileges to manipulate the service or its components to gain elevated privileges, such as SYSTEM or administrator level. This type of vulnerability typically involves improper access control lists (ACLs) or weak service permissions that permit unauthorized users to modify service binaries, configuration files, or registry keys associated with the service. Exploiting this vulnerability could enable an attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially leading to full system compromise. Although no CVSS score has been assigned and no exploits are currently known to be in the wild, the vulnerability is significant because local privilege escalation is a common step in multi-stage attacks and can bypass user restrictions. The lack of a patch or vendor advisory at this time increases the risk for organizations relying on this software. The vulnerability affects Windows environments where Avanquest Driver Updater is installed, which is typically used for maintaining and updating device drivers. Given the nature of the software, it is often found on enterprise and consumer Windows endpoints, making it a relevant concern for organizations with large Windows fleets. The vulnerability was reserved in September 2025 and published in February 2026, indicating recent discovery and disclosure.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk primarily to endpoint security and system integrity. Successful exploitation allows attackers to escalate privileges locally, which can lead to unauthorized installation of malware, persistence mechanisms, or lateral movement within corporate networks. This can compromise sensitive data confidentiality and integrity, disrupt availability by destabilizing systems, or facilitate further attacks such as ransomware deployment. Organizations with extensive use of Avanquest Driver Updater on Windows endpoints, particularly in sectors with high regulatory requirements like finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, face increased risk. The vulnerability could undermine trust in endpoint management processes and complicate compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR. Additionally, the lack of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation, but also means attackers may develop exploits rapidly once details become widespread. The impact is heightened in environments where users have limited awareness or where endpoint privilege separation is weak.

European organizations should immediately audit the permissions of the Avanquest Driver Updater Service on all Windows endpoints to identify insecure configurations. Until a vendor patch or official fix is released, restrict local user permissions to prevent unauthorized modification of the service or its files. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious activity related to the Driver Updater Service. Consider temporarily disabling or uninstalling the Avanquest Driver Updater software if it is not critical to operations. Implement strict local user privilege management to minimize the number of users with administrative rights. Regularly review and update endpoint security policies to detect privilege escalation attempts. Stay alert for vendor advisories or patches and apply them promptly once available. Conduct user awareness training to reduce the risk of local attackers gaining initial access. Finally, integrate this vulnerability into vulnerability management programs and incident response plans to ensure timely detection and remediation.