Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability in Windows BitLocker by Microsoft

CVE-2025-54911

What is CVE-2025-54911?

CVE-2025-54911 is a vulnerability affecting Microsoft Windows BitLocker, a built-in disk encryption feature designed to protect data by preventing unauthorized access to information on lost or stolen computers. This specific vulnerability arises from a "use after free" error within the BitLocker component, which can be exploited by an authorized attacker to elevate their privileges locally within the affected system. When an attacker successfully exploits this flaw, they may gain the ability to execute unauthorized commands or access sensitive data, thereby posing a considerable risk to the confidentiality and integrity of the information stored on the device.

Potential impact of CVE-2025-54911

1. Unauthorized Access: The most significant impact of this vulnerability is the potential for unauthorized users to gain elevated privileges, allowing them to bypass security protocols and access confidential information that should be restricted.

2. System Compromise: Exploiting this vulnerability could lead to a complete compromise of the affected system. An attacker could leverage the heightened privileges to modify system configurations, install malicious software, or integrate into the network undetected, thus increasing the attack surface for future exploits.

3. Data Breach and Compliance Risks: Because BitLocker is often used to secure sensitive and critical data, any successful exploitation can result in data breaches. This not only poses a threat to organizational integrity and reputation but may also lead to violations of data protection regulations, resulting in financial penalties and legal repercussions.

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