#VU102644 Improper Resolution of Path Equivalence in Microsoft products - CVE-2025-21189

Vulnerability identifier: #VU102644

Vulnerability risk: Low

CVSSv4.0: 1.2 [CVSS:4.0/AV:N/AC:L/AT:N/PR:N/UI:A/VC:L/VI:N/VA:N/SC:N/SI:N/SA:N/E:U/U:Clear]

CVE-ID: CVE-2025-21189

CWE-ID: CWE-41

Exploitation vector: Network

Exploit availability: No

Vulnerable software:
Microsoft Internet Explorer
Client/Desktop applications / Web browsers
Windows
Operating systems & Components / Operating system
Windows Server
Operating systems & Components / Operating system

Vendor: Microsoft

Description

The vulnerability allows a remote attacker to gain access to sensitive information.

The vulnerability exists due to improper resolution of path equivalence in MapUrlToZone security feature. A remote attacker can trick the victim into opening a specially crafted file and gain access to sensitive information.

Mitigation
Install updates from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

Microsoft Internet Explorer: 11 - 11.1790.17763.0

Windows: before 10 21H2, 10 22H2, 10 1507, 10 1607, 10 1809, 11 22H2, 11 23H2, 11 24H2, 10 21H2, 10 21H2, 10 21H2, 10 21H2, 10 21H2, 10 21H2, 10 21H2, 10 21H2

Windows Server: before 2008 R2, 2008, 2012 R2, 2012, 2016, 2022 23H2, 2022, 2008 R2, 2008 R2, 2008 R2, 2008 R2

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External links
http://portal.msrc.microsoft.com/en-US/security-guidance/advisory/CVE-2025-21189

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Q & A

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

Yes. This vulnerability can be exploited by a remote non-authenticated attacker via the Internet.

Is there known malware, which exploits this vulnerability?

No. We are not aware of malware exploiting this vulnerability.