Overview
CVE-2025-59485 is a critical vulnerability discovered in the Security Point (Windows) component of MaLion, specifically in versions prior to Ver. 5.3.4. This flaw arises from incorrect default permissions, allowing a local attacker (any user who can log in to the affected system) to potentially escalate privileges to SYSTEM level.
Technical Details
The vulnerability stems from inadequate permissions on a directory used by MaLion Security Point. An attacker can exploit this by placing an arbitrary file into a specific folder used by the application. If the attacker places a specially crafted DLL file into this directory, the MaLion Security Point application could load and execute it. Due to the application’s elevated privileges, the malicious DLL would then be executed with SYSTEM privileges, granting the attacker complete control over the affected system.
The key to the exploit is the combination of write access to the target directory and the ability of MaLion Security Point to load DLLs from that location. The absence of proper permission checks allows for this dangerous scenario.
CVSS Analysis
Currently, the CVSS score for CVE-2025-59485 is not available (N/A). However, based on the description, the potential impact of SYSTEM privilege escalation suggests a high severity rating. A thorough CVSS analysis, when available, is crucial for accurately assessing the risk associated with this vulnerability.
Possible Impact
Successful exploitation of CVE-2025-59485 can have severe consequences. An attacker who gains SYSTEM privileges can:
- Install malicious software, including ransomware, keyloggers, and backdoors.
- Access sensitive data, including user credentials, financial information, and confidential business documents.
- Modify system configurations, potentially disrupting services or causing system instability.
- Create new user accounts with administrator privileges.
- Erase or encrypt data, leading to data loss or extortion.
Essentially, an attacker with SYSTEM privileges has complete control over the compromised system.
Mitigation or Patch Steps
The primary mitigation for CVE-2025-59485 is to upgrade MaLion Security Point to version 5.3.4 or later. This version includes the necessary fixes to address the incorrect default permissions issue. It is strongly recommended that all users of affected MaLion versions apply this update as soon as possible.
To mitigate the risk before patching, consider implementing the following workarounds (though upgrading is highly preferred):
- Monitor the file system for unauthorized modifications in directories used by MaLion Security Point.
- Restrict access to the affected directories, limiting write permissions to only authorized users or processes. However, be extremely careful when changing permissions, as it might render the application inoperable. Thorough testing is required.
