CVE-2025-47993: Microsoft PC Manager Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
Summary
CVE-2025-47993 is an elevation of privilege (EoP) vulnerability in Microsoft PC Manager, stemming from improper access control and unsafe link resolution before file access (commonly called “link following”). This flaw allows an attacker with local, authenticated access—such as a low-privilege user account—to escalate their permissions to SYSTEM, i.e., full administrator control of the Windows device. This type of vulnerability is highly valuable to attackers as it can convert limited access into complete system control, facilitating malware, ransomware attacks, or deeper intrusion into enterprise environments.Technical Details
- Attack Vector: Local (an attacker must already have an existing, authenticated low-privilege account).
- Vulnerability Mechanism: By creating or manipulating symbolic links (symlinks) or shortcuts, an attacker can deceive Microsoft PC Manager (which runs with elevated privileges during system operations like cleanup or updates) into performing privileged file operations on files or directories specified by the attacker. This could result in unauthorized file deletion, permission changes, file overwrites, or (in specific cases) code execution with SYSTEM privileges.
- Exploit Scenario:
- The attacker sets up a malicious symlink pointing to a critical system file or directory.
- PC Manager (running with higher privileges) follows the symlink during system maintenance.
- Insufficient validation by PC Manager allows privileged actions against files targeted by the attacker.
Exploitation and Impact
- Severity: High. Successful exploitation results in complete control over the host by the attacker after initial, local access. This is especially dangerous in environments where multiple users share workstations or where other security controls could then be disabled by the attacker.
- Attack Use Cases: Often exploited as a “second stage” in multi-stage attacks. For instance, an attacker may first deploy malware or leverage phishing to gain access, then use this vulnerability to escalate control.
Microsoft Advisory & Response
- Official Guidance: Microsoft has patched this vulnerability in a recent update to PC Manager. Microsoft Security Update Guide: CVE-2025-47993 (official advisory).
- Mitigation: Update PC Manager to the latest version using the Microsoft Store or official distribution channels. There are no recommended workarounds aside from patching.
Security Best Practices
- Apply Patches Immediately: All users and administrators should update PC Manager as soon as possible.
- Use the Principle of Least Privilege: Ensure users and software do not routinely run with unnecessary admin rights.
- Monitor for Symlink Activity: Use security tools to watch for suspicious symlink or file operations in temp/user profile locations.
- Educate Users: Highlight risks of installing utilities from unofficial sources and the importance of timely updates.
- Harden Endpoint Protections: Ensure Microsoft Defender or similar solutions are enabled, including tamper protection.
Additional Notes
- Exploit Chain Potential: While CVE-2025-47993 on its own only allows local escalation, attackers can chain this with other vulnerabilities (e.g., browser flaws, remote code execution bugs) for rapid lateral movement and large-scale compromise.
- No Public Exploit Confirmed Yet: As of the latest advisories, no widely circulating proof-of-concept code has been reported, but security researchers advise prompt patching due to historical weaponization patterns.
References:
- Microsoft Security Update Guide (official site): CVE-2025-47993
- In-depth discussion and analysis:
Source: MSRC Security Update Guide - Microsoft Security Response Center
