Critical Vulnerability in NVIDIA NVApp for Windows Allows Malicious Code Execution
NVIDIA has recently addressed a significant security flaw in its NVApp for Windows, identified as CVE-2025-23358. This vulnerability, found within the application’s installer component, could enable local attackers to execute arbitrary code and escalate their privileges on compromised systems.
Understanding the Vulnerability
The root of this issue lies in a search path element flaw within the NVIDIA App installer, categorized under CWE-427. This type of vulnerability occurs when an application searches for resources in directories that can be manipulated by an attacker, potentially leading to the execution of malicious code.
An attacker with local access and minimal privileges can exploit this flaw by altering the search path, thereby injecting and executing harmful code. While user interaction is necessary to trigger the exploit, successful execution grants the attacker full control over the system, including the ability to escalate privileges.
Technical Impact and Severity
CVE-2025-23358 has been assigned a CVSS v3.1 base score of 8.2, classifying it as a high-severity vulnerability. The attack vector is local, meaning the attacker must have physical or logical access to the target machine. Despite this, the low complexity of the attack and the potential for privilege escalation make it particularly concerning, especially in environments with multiple users or within corporate networks.
Affected Versions and Recommended Actions
All versions of the NVIDIA App for Windows prior to 11.0.5.260 are susceptible to this vulnerability. Users operating these versions are at risk of exploitation. To mitigate this threat, NVIDIA advises all affected users to promptly download and install version 11.0.5.260 or later from the official NVIDIA App website.
Broader Implications and Preventative Measures
This vulnerability highlights the critical importance of keeping third-party software up to date, even for auxiliary applications like NVIDIA’s utility software. Installer components are often targeted by attackers due to the elevated privileges they possess during installation processes.
To safeguard your system, it is essential to download the latest NVIDIA App version from the official NVIDIA App site. The recent patch directly addresses the search path handling issue, effectively eliminating the code execution vector.
Organizations managing multiple NVIDIA-equipped workstations should prioritize deploying this update across their infrastructure. Security teams are encouraged to review their software inventory to identify systems running outdated NVIDIA App versions and coordinate swift patching efforts.
Conclusion
The discovery and subsequent patching of CVE-2025-23358 serve as a reminder of the ever-present need for vigilance in software maintenance and security practices. By staying informed and proactive, users and organizations can protect themselves against potential threats and maintain the integrity of their systems.
