CVE-2025-24060 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE • 04/08/2025
Improper input validation in Windows DWM Core Library allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-24060 resides within the Windows Desktop Window Manager DWM Core Library, a critical component responsible for rendering graphical user interfaces and managing window composition on Microsoft Windows operating systems. This flaw represents a significant security weakness that affects the fundamental graphics subsystem of Windows, potentially enabling local privilege escalation attacks. The issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the DWM Core Library, which processes graphical rendering commands and window management operations that are essential for the desktop experience.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an authenticated attacker with local access can manipulate input parameters that are not properly validated by the DWM Core Library. This improper validation allows malicious code to bypass security checks that should prevent unauthorized privilege elevation. The flaw specifically manifests when the system processes certain graphical operations or window management functions that pass through the DWM Core Library, creating an opportunity for attackers to inject malicious payloads or manipulate system resources. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-20, which represents "Improper Input Validation," a fundamental weakness that has been consistently identified as a primary attack vector in numerous security incidents. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that DWM is integral to the Windows desktop environment and runs with elevated privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2025-24060 extends beyond simple local privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with the capability to gain system-level access from a local account. This could enable unauthorized users to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects multiple Windows versions including Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server editions, making it a widespread concern for enterprise environments. Attackers could leverage this flaw to establish persistent access, escalate privileges to SYSTEM level, and subsequently compromise the entire operating system. The risk is particularly elevated in environments where users have local access to systems or where credential theft has occurred, as the attack requires only local authentication rather than network-based exploitation.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the latest Microsoft security updates and patches that address this vulnerability in the DWM Core Library. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as restricting local user access where possible and monitoring for unusual graphical process activity. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves 'Local Privilege Escalation,' and represents a common attack pattern that adversaries use to gain higher system privileges. Additional defensive measures should include network segmentation, privileged access management, and regular security assessments to identify potential exploitation attempts. The DWM Core Library vulnerability demonstrates how fundamental system components can become attack vectors when proper input validation is absent, emphasizing the importance of robust security controls throughout all layers of the operating system architecture.