Windows SSDP Service Type Confusion Flaw (CVE-2025-48815): Privilege Escalation Risk Explained

Introduction

In July 2025, Microsoft addressed a critical type confusion vulnerability (CVE-2025-48815) in the Windows Simple Search and Discovery Protocol (SSDP) Service. This flaw, if exploited, could allow authenticated attackers to escalate privileges locally, potentially leading to unauthorized control over affected systems. Given the widespread use of Windows and the critical role of SSDP in network device discovery, this vulnerability holds significant implications for enterprise security.

Technical Information

The vulnerability stems from improper handling of resource types within the Windows SSDP Service. Specifically, the service fails to adequately validate data structures when processing network discovery requests, leading to a type confusion scenario. This oversight allows an attacker to manipulate memory allocations by crafting malicious local commands or network packets, causing the system to misinterpret data types. As a result, memory corruption occurs, enabling attackers to bypass security checks and execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.

Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods

Local Exploitation: An attacker with standard user credentials can exploit this flaw without additional user interaction, escalating privileges to SYSTEM-level access.
Network Adjacency: Exploitation over the network requires authenticated sessions, limiting remote attacks to adjacent networks where attackers have compromised legitimate user sessions.

Affected Systems and Versions

All Windows OS versions with SSDP Service enabled by default (common in most desktop/server editions).

Patch Information

Microsoft has addressed the type confusion vulnerability in the Windows SSDP Service by implementing stricter type checks and enhancing memory management routines. This update ensures that resources are accessed using compatible types, thereby preventing unauthorized privilege escalation. Users are advised to apply the latest security updates to benefit from these improvements.

Patch Source: Microsoft Security Response Center

Vendor Security History

Microsoft has encountered similar privilege escalation vulnerabilities within its network services in the past. The vendor has consistently demonstrated a robust security response, addressing vulnerabilities promptly and effectively. The July 2025 Patch Tuesday updates, which included fixes for 137 vulnerabilities, underscore Microsoft's ongoing commitment to security improvements and proactive vulnerability management.

Threat Intelligence

As of the latest information, there is no evidence of active exploitation or public disclosure of CVE-2025-48815. Microsoft assesses the exploitability as 'Less Likely' due to the complexity involved in exploiting this type confusion flaw, suggesting limited real-world threat potential.

References

Source: This report was created using AI

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