Description

Sophos has identified and patched three high-severity vulnerabilities within its Intercept X for Windows endpoint security software, posing significant risks to organizations utilizing the product. These security flaws, tracked as CVE-2024-13972, CVE-2025-7433, and CVE-2025-7472, affect different core components including the product's updater, Device Encryption module, and installer. The most critical one, CVE-2024-13972, allows local users to gain SYSTEM access through hijacked registry permissions during product updates. The other two vulnerabilities could lead to local privilege escalation and the execution of arbitrary code, which are serious concerns in environments designed for restricted user access. These vulnerabilities were responsibly disclosed to Sophos by external security researchers through their bug bounty program. Specifically, CVE-2025-7433 targets the Device Encryption module, potentially enabling code execution with a compromise of data confidentiality. CVE-2025-7472 impacts the Intercept X installer, providing a pathway for privilege escalation when executed with SYSTEM privileges, particularly during new installations. If exploited, these vulnerabilities could allow attackers to leverage misconfigurations in endpoint security technology as a starting point for broader system compromise. To mitigate these threats, Sophos has released essential patches. To mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2024-13972, users of Intercept X for Windows are advised to upgrade their software. The necessary fix for this specific vulnerability is incorporated in version 2024.3.2 and all subsequent releases. Device Encryption should be updated to version 2025.1 or higher for the fix to CVE-2025-7433, and the installer should be updated to version 1.22 to resolve CVE-2025-7472. Organizations are strongly advised to prioritize updating all affected systems and ensure no outdated installers are in use. Manual patching may be required for systems under Fixed Term Support (FTS) or Long Term Support (LTS). The event highlights the necessity of maintaining up-to-date patch management and conducting periodic endpoint security technology assessments.