CVE-2025-65117 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-676 (Use of Potentially Dangerous Function) affecting AVEVA Process Optimization software. The flaw allows an authenticated user with Process Optimization Designer privileges to embed Object Linking and Embedding (OLE) objects into graphical elements within the software environment. When another user subsequently interacts with these manipulated graphical elements, the embedded OLE objects can be leveraged to escalate privileges, effectively allowing the attacker to impersonate the victim user. This attack vector exploits the trust relationship and interaction model within the application’s graphical interface. The vulnerability requires that the attacker already has authenticated access with designer-level permissions and that the victim user interacts with the malicious graphics, indicating a need for user interaction. The CVSS 3.1 score of 7.4 reflects high severity, with a vector indicating low attack complexity, low privileges required (though not none), and user interaction necessary. The scope is changed, meaning the vulnerability affects resources beyond the initially compromised component. Confidentiality and integrity impacts are high, while availability is unaffected. No patches or known exploits are currently available, but the vulnerability has been publicly disclosed and assigned a CVE ID. This vulnerability is particularly concerning for industrial and process optimization environments where AVEVA software is deployed, as it could lead to unauthorized access and manipulation of critical process data and control systems.

For European organizations, especially those in industrial automation, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure sectors using AVEVA Process Optimization, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Exploitation could allow attackers to escalate privileges and impersonate legitimate users, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive process data, manipulation of operational parameters, and disruption of process integrity. This could result in operational downtime, safety incidents, intellectual property theft, and regulatory non-compliance. Given the high confidentiality and integrity impact, attackers could covertly alter process optimization data or configurations, undermining trust in automated systems. The requirement for authenticated access and user interaction somewhat limits the attack surface but does not eliminate risk, particularly in environments with multiple users and complex workflows. European organizations with interconnected systems and remote access capabilities may face increased exposure. The lack of a patch increases the urgency for interim mitigations to prevent exploitation.

1. Restrict Process Optimization Designer user privileges strictly to trusted personnel and enforce the principle of least privilege. 2. Implement rigorous user activity monitoring and auditing to detect unusual embedding of OLE objects or unexpected graphical content changes. 3. Educate users to be cautious when interacting with graphical elements, especially those created or modified by other users. 4. Apply network segmentation and access controls to limit the ability of authenticated users to reach critical systems unnecessarily. 5. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions that can detect or block suspicious OLE object embedding or execution. 6. Regularly check for vendor updates or patches from AVEVA and apply them promptly once available. 7. Consider disabling or restricting OLE object embedding features if feasible within operational requirements. 8. Conduct internal penetration testing and vulnerability assessments focusing on AVEVA Process Optimization deployments to identify potential exploitation paths. 9. Maintain incident response readiness to quickly contain and remediate any exploitation attempts.