CVE-2025-71212: Trend Micro Apex One Virus Scan Engine Link Following Local Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
A link following vulnerability in the Trend Micro Apex One scan engine could allow a local attacker to escalate privileges on affected installations. Please note: an attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target system in order to exploit this vulnerability.
Other sources
This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Trend Micro Apex One Security Agent. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target system in order to exploit this vulnerability. The specific flaw exists within the Virus Scan Engine. By creating a symbolic link, an attacker can abuse the VSApiNt.sys driver to delete arbitrary files. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code in the context of SYSTEM.
— ZDI
Affected Software
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2025-71212?
The severity of CVE-2025-71212 is high with a score of 7.8.
How do I fix CVE-2025-71212?
To fix CVE-2025-71212, update the Trend Micro Apex One scan engine to the latest version provided by Trend Micro.
What products are affected by CVE-2025-71212?
CVE-2025-71212 affects the Trend Micro Apex One scan engine and Trend Micro Apex One software.
What type of vulnerability is CVE-2025-71212?
CVE-2025-71212 is a link following vulnerability that allows local privilege escalation.
Who can exploit CVE-2025-71212?
A local attacker who has the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target system can exploit CVE-2025-71212.