CVE-2025-9869 is a local privilege escalation vulnerability affecting Razer Synapse 3, specifically version 3.10.228.21112. The vulnerability is rooted in improper link resolution before file access (CWE-59) within the Razer Synapse Service. An attacker who already has the ability to execute code with low privileges on the target system can exploit this flaw by creating a symbolic link (symlink) that the service follows incorrectly. This symlink abuse allows the attacker to delete arbitrary files, which can be leveraged to escalate privileges to SYSTEM level. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require local access with limited privileges. The CVSS v3.0 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity due to the potential for complete system compromise (confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts). No public exploits are known yet, but the vulnerability was assigned by the Zero Day Initiative (ZDI) as ZDI-CAN-26374. The flaw highlights a classic link-following issue where the service fails to properly validate or restrict symbolic link targets before performing file operations, enabling attackers to manipulate critical files or system components. This can lead to arbitrary code execution in the context of the SYSTEM user, effectively giving full control over the affected machine.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-9869 can be significant, especially in environments where Razer Synapse 3 is installed, such as gaming companies, esports organizations, and enterprises with gaming peripherals deployed. Successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise, allowing attackers to access sensitive data, disrupt operations by deleting or modifying critical files, and potentially move laterally within networks. This is particularly concerning for organizations with stringent data protection requirements under GDPR, as unauthorized access or data alteration could result in compliance violations and reputational damage. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks against high-value individuals or organizations using Razer hardware. The requirement for local code execution limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, as attackers often gain initial footholds through phishing or other means. The absence of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the high severity score underscores the urgency of addressing this issue.

1. Immediately audit and restrict local user permissions to minimize the ability of low-privileged users to execute arbitrary code or create symbolic links. 2. Implement strict application whitelisting and endpoint protection to detect and block unauthorized symbolic link creation or suspicious file system activities related to Razer Synapse. 3. Monitor system logs and file system events for unusual deletion patterns or symlink manipulations targeting Razer Synapse service files. 4. Isolate systems running Razer Synapse 3 from critical network segments to reduce lateral movement potential. 5. Coordinate with Razer for timely patch deployment once available; in the meantime, consider disabling or uninstalling Razer Synapse 3 on non-essential systems. 6. Educate users about the risks of executing untrusted code locally, as initial low-privileged code execution is a prerequisite for exploitation. 7. Employ host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS) tuned to detect privilege escalation attempts via symbolic link abuse. 8. Regularly back up critical files and system states to enable recovery from potential destructive actions triggered by exploitation.