Windows Setup Files Cleanup Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability in Microsoft Products

CVE-2025-21419

What is CVE-2025-21419?

CVE-2025-21419 is an elevation of privilege vulnerability found in Microsoft products, specifically relating to the Windows Setup Files Cleanup process. This vulnerability allows a local attacker to gain elevated privileges on a system by exploiting weaknesses in the cleanup mechanisms of setup files. If successfully exploited, this vulnerability could allow an unauthorized user to execute actions that require elevated permissions, potentially compromising the integrity of the system and the data it handles. Organizations relying on Microsoft products for various operations could face significant security risks if such an exploit were to occur.

Technical Details

CVE-2025-21419 involves a flaw in the way Windows handles the cleanup of setup files, potentially allowing a local attacker to elevate their privileges. This could be accomplished if the attacker can interact with the system and manipulate the cleanup process during or after installation operations. The exact technical specifics have not been fully disclosed, but the vulnerability is identified as a classic elevation of privilege scenario, where proper checks and balances in the software's operation have been bypassed.

Potential impact of CVE-2025-21419

1. Unauthorized System Access: The vulnerability could enable an attacker to gain access to restricted areas of the system, leading to unauthorized control or manipulation of sensitive data.

2. Increased Malware Propagation: With elevated privileges, an attacker could deploy malicious software, making it easier to spread malware across the network, potentially affecting multiple systems and data integrity.

3. Data Breaches: The ability to execute actions that require higher permissions can lead to data exfiltration and compromise, putting sensitive organizational information at risk and potentially leading to regulatory penalties and loss of reputation.

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