CVE-2025-46637 in Encryption
Summary
by MITRE • 12/09/2025
Dell Encryption, versions prior to 11.12.1, contain an Improper Link Resolution Before File Access ('Link Following') vulnerability. A local malicious user could potentially exploit this vulnerability, leading to Elevation of privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/09/2025
This vulnerability resides within Dell Encryption software versions before 11.12.1, specifically addressing an improper link resolution before file access flaw that falls under the CWE-420 category of improper link resolution. The vulnerability manifests when the encryption software fails to properly validate symbolic links or hard links before accessing files, creating a potential privilege escalation vector for local attackers. Attackers could exploit this weakness by crafting malicious symbolic links that point to sensitive system files or directories, allowing them to bypass normal access controls and gain elevated privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of file paths during the encryption process, where the software does not adequately verify the integrity and legitimacy of symbolic links before performing file operations. This weakness creates a window where a malicious user with local access can manipulate the file system to redirect file access operations to unintended targets. The flaw operates at the operating system level where file access controls are bypassed through improper link resolution, potentially allowing attackers to read or modify protected system files that should only be accessible to administrators or the encryption service itself.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it represents a critical security weakness that could enable attackers to compromise the entire encryption infrastructure. Local attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability could potentially access encrypted data, modify encryption keys, or manipulate the encryption process itself, undermining the fundamental security guarantees that Dell Encryption is designed to provide. This weakness particularly affects enterprise environments where Dell Encryption is deployed, as it could allow attackers to bypass data protection mechanisms and access sensitive information that should remain encrypted and protected.
Organizations should immediately upgrade to Dell Encryption version 11.12.1 or later to remediate this vulnerability, as the update includes proper link validation mechanisms that prevent malicious symbolic links from being followed during file access operations. System administrators should also implement additional monitoring for suspicious symbolic link creation and file access patterns, particularly in directories where encryption processes operate. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers local privilege escalation through improper link resolution, making it a critical target for security teams to address through both patch management and behavioral monitoring approaches. Security controls should include regular audits of symbolic link usage and implementation of mandatory access controls that prevent unauthorized link creation and manipulation in encryption-related directories.