CVE-2025-8298 is a security vulnerability identified in the Realtek RTL8811AU wireless network adapter driver, specifically within the rtwlanu.sys driver component. The flaw resides in the function N6CQueryInformationHandleCustomized11nOids, where improper validation of user-supplied data leads to an out-of-bounds read condition (CWE-125). This vulnerability allows a local attacker, who already has the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target system, to read memory beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. Such an out-of-bounds read can result in the disclosure of sensitive information from kernel memory space. While the vulnerability itself does not directly allow code execution or system disruption, it can be leveraged in combination with other vulnerabilities to escalate privileges or execute arbitrary code within the kernel context. The vulnerability affects version 1030.38.712.2019 of the Realtek RTL8811AU driver. The CVSS 3.0 base score is 3.8, indicating a low severity primarily due to the requirement for local access with low privileges, no user interaction, and limited impact on confidentiality only. No public exploits are known to be in the wild at this time, and no patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability was assigned and published by the Zero Day Initiative (ZDI) under the identifier ZDI-CAN-25864.

For European organizations, the primary risk posed by CVE-2025-8298 is the potential leakage of sensitive kernel memory information, which could include cryptographic keys, credentials, or other sensitive data residing in memory. Although the vulnerability requires local low-privileged code execution, it could be exploited by attackers who have already compromised a system through other means, such as phishing or malware. This can facilitate further privilege escalation or lateral movement within corporate networks. Organizations relying on devices with Realtek RTL8811AU wireless adapters, particularly those running the affected driver version, may face increased risk of targeted attacks aiming to extract sensitive information or prepare for kernel-level exploitation. The lack of remote exploitability limits the threat surface, but insider threats or malware infections could leverage this vulnerability. Given the widespread use of Realtek wireless chipsets in laptops and embedded devices, sectors such as finance, government, and critical infrastructure in Europe could be impacted if vulnerable devices are present and unpatched.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should: 1) Inventory and identify all devices using the Realtek RTL8811AU wireless adapter and verify the driver version installed. 2) Monitor vendor channels closely for official patches or driver updates addressing CVE-2025-8298 and apply them promptly once available. 3) Implement strict endpoint security controls to prevent unauthorized local code execution, including application whitelisting, endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions, and least privilege policies. 4) Employ network segmentation to limit lateral movement opportunities for attackers who gain initial access. 5) Regularly audit and monitor system logs for suspicious local activity that could indicate exploitation attempts. 6) Educate users about phishing and malware risks to reduce the likelihood of initial compromise. 7) Consider disabling or replacing vulnerable wireless adapters in high-security environments if patching is delayed or unavailable. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on controlling local access, driver version management, and proactive monitoring tailored to this vulnerability's characteristics.