CVE-2025-59244 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE • 10/14/2025
External control of file name or path in Windows Core Shell allows an unauthorized attacker to perform spoofing over a network.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/25/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-59244 resides within the Windows Core Shell component, specifically exposing a critical weakness in how file names and paths are handled during external operations. This flaw enables attackers to manipulate file paths through network-based interactions, creating opportunities for malicious file spoofing and unauthorized access to system resources. The issue fundamentally stems from insufficient validation of external inputs when processing file operations, allowing adversaries to inject malicious path references that bypass normal security controls. The Windows Core Shell serves as a foundational component for file system operations and user interface elements, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can affect multiple system functions and user interactions.
This technical flaw represents a classic case of path traversal and file name manipulation vulnerability that aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-73 Path Traversal. The vulnerability operates at the interface between external network communications and local file system operations, where network-based inputs are not properly sanitized before being used in file path construction. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious network requests that contain specially formatted file paths, potentially causing the system to access unintended files or directories. The vulnerability's network-based nature means that it can be exploited remotely without requiring local system access, making it particularly attractive to threat actors seeking to compromise Windows environments from external positions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file spoofing to encompass broader system compromise and data integrity threats. When an attacker successfully exploits this weakness, they can potentially access sensitive files, modify system resources, or redirect file operations to malicious destinations. This capability can lead to unauthorized data access, system corruption, or even privilege escalation depending on the context in which the vulnerable component operates. The vulnerability affects the core shell functionality of Windows systems, meaning that successful exploitation could impact user interface operations, file management functions, and system stability. Network-based exploitation also means that traditional network segmentation and firewall rules may not prevent this specific attack vector, as the vulnerability operates at the application layer where legitimate network communications are processed.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-59244 should focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization mechanisms for all external file path operations within the Windows Core Shell. Organizations should deploy network-based security controls including deep packet inspection and application firewalls to monitor and filter malicious path references. The implementation of proper path normalization and validation routines can prevent attackers from injecting malicious path components into system operations. Additionally, regular security updates and patches from Microsoft should be prioritized to address this vulnerability, as it represents a fundamental flaw in the system's core file handling mechanisms. System administrators should also consider implementing least privilege principles for shell operations and monitoring for anomalous file access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's alignment with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 Command and Scripting Interpreter suggests that exploitation may involve automated tools or scripts designed to manipulate shell operations through crafted file paths, making comprehensive monitoring and detection capabilities essential for defense.