Dell Encryption: Improper Link Resolution Before File Access
CVE-2025-46637 is a high-severity improper link resolution before file access vulnerability in Dell Encryption from Dell, with a CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.3 out of 10. It can be exploited with local access to the system by an attacker with a low-privileged account, but only if a user takes part, for example by opening a link or file. The record lists version 11.12.1 as the first without the flaw, so updating Dell Encryption to that release or later removes the exposure. There is no confirmed exploitation so far. EPSS estimates a 0.11% chance of exploitation within 30 days, which is low compared with other CVEs.
High severity with no evidence of exploitation so far.
What to do
- Update Dell Encryption to 11.12.1 or a later version.
- Update Encryption to 11.12.1 or a later version.
- Read the advisory on dell.com for workarounds and exact fixed builds.
- Because the attack needs a user to take part, warn users about unexpected links and files related to this product until it is patched.
Affected products and versions
| Vendor | Product | Affected versions | Fixed in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dell | Dell Encryption | before 11.12.1 | 11.12.1 |
| Dell | Encryption | before 11.12.1 | 11.12.1 |
Version data comes from the organisation that assigned the CVE. Confirm against the vendor advisory before deciding you are unaffected.
How the severity score breaks down
- Attack vector
- LocalThe attacker needs local access or must trick a user into running something.
- Attack complexity
- LowNo special conditions are needed; the attack works reliably.
- Privileges required
- LowA basic user account is enough.
- User interaction
- RequiredA user must take an action such as opening a file or link.
- Scope
- UnchangedImpact stays within the vulnerable component.
- Confidentiality
- HighAll data handled by the component can be read.
- Integrity
- HighData or code can be modified at will.
- Availability
- HighThe component can be taken down completely.
Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H. Scored by CNA (emc.com).
Official description
Dell Encryption, versions prior to 11.12.1, contain an Improper Link Resolution Before File Access ('Link Following') vulnerability. A local malicious user could potentially exploit this vulnerability, leading to Elevation of privileges.
Source: the CVE record as published by its numbering authority, via NVD and CVE.org.
The underlying weakness: Improper Link Resolution Before File Access
The product attempts to access a file based on the filename, but it does not properly prevent that filename from identifying a link or shortcut that resolves to an unintended resource.
How developers prevent this class of flaw
- Follow the principle of least privilege when assigning access rights to entities in a software system. Denying access to a file can prevent an attacker from replacing that file with a link to a sensitive file. Ensure good compartmentalization in the system to provide protected areas that can be trusted.
More Improper Link Resolution Before File Access vulnerabilities (CWE-59)
Timeline
- CVE record published.
- CISA published its SSVC assessment (exploitation: none, automatable: no, technical impact: total).
- Record last changed materially (score, affected products, status or references).
References
Other vulnerabilities in Dell Encryption
- 7.8 High severity
Recent Improper Link Resolution Before File Access vulnerabilities
- 7.5 High severity
- 8.6 High severity
- 7.7 High severity
- 8.5 High severity
- 7.8 High severity
Microsoft Windows Link Following Exploited
- 7.2 High severity
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