CVE-2025-24059 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE • 03/11/2025
Incorrect conversion between numeric types in Windows Common Log File System Driver allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-24059 resides within the Windows Common Log File System Driver, a critical component responsible for handling log file operations across the operating system. This flaw represents a numeric type conversion error that occurs when processing log data structures, specifically affecting how the driver manages data type boundaries during log file processing operations. The issue manifests when the system encounters certain log entries that trigger improper type casting between integer and floating point representations, creating potential exploitation pathways for malicious actors with local access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and type safety mechanisms within the kernel-mode driver component. When legitimate log entries are processed, the driver performs implicit type conversions that do not properly validate the source data ranges or target type capabilities. This flaw creates a condition where an attacker can craft specific log entries containing malformed numeric data that, when processed by the driver, results in unexpected behavior. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within kernel space, where privilege escalation opportunities are maximized due to the elevated execution context.
Operating system exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to already possess legitimate user credentials and local system access, as the flaw does not permit remote code execution or network-based exploitation. However, the local privilege escalation capability makes this vector particularly dangerous for attackers who have already gained initial access through other means such as phishing campaigns, credential theft, or social engineering attacks. The vulnerability can be leveraged to elevate privileges from standard user level to system administrator level, providing complete control over the affected system.
The operational impact of CVE-2025-24059 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it can enable attackers to bypass various security controls and access sensitive system resources. Once elevated, malicious actors can modify system configurations, install persistent backdoors, access encrypted data, and perform reconnaissance activities without detection. The vulnerability's presence in the Common Log File System Driver means that any system with active logging mechanisms could be affected, potentially compromising large enterprise environments where logging is extensively utilized. This makes the flaw particularly dangerous in corporate environments where audit trails and security monitoring are critical components of the defense-in-depth strategy.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patch deployment from Microsoft, as the flaw requires kernel-level code modifications to address properly. Organizations should implement additional monitoring for anomalous log file processing activities and establish privileged access controls to limit user access to logging subsystems. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-191, which describes integer underflow and overflow conditions, and represents a specific instance of improper integer handling that can lead to privilege escalation. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to privilege escalation techniques using kernel exploits and falls under the category of system binary privileges and kernel driver manipulation, making it a significant concern for organizations implementing comprehensive threat hunting and incident response procedures.