CVE-2025-33053: Windows 10 1507 Internet Shortcut RCE Flaw

CVE-2025-33053 is a remote code execution vulnerability in Windows 10 1507 affecting Internet Shortcut Files. Attackers can exploit file path manipulation to execute unauthorized code remotely. This article covers technical details, affected versions, security impact, and recommended mitigation strategies.

CVE-2025-33053 Overview

External control of file name or path in Internet Shortcut Files allows an unauthorized attacker to execute code over a network.

Critical Impact
This vulnerability allows remote code execution, enabling attackers to potentially take complete control of the affected systems.

Affected Products

Microsoft Windows 10 1507
Microsoft Windows 10 1607
Microsoft Windows 10 1809

Discovery Timeline

2025-06-10 - CVE-2025-33053 published to NVD
2025-10-27 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2025-33053

Vulnerability Analysis

The vulnerability exists due to improper handling of file paths in Internet Shortcut Files which can be manipulated by an external attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the application.

Root Cause

Lack of validation in handling paths specified in Internet Shortcut Files.

Attack Vector

Exploited via a network-based vector where the victim is induced to access a malicious shortcut file.

powershell

# Example exploitation code (sanitized)
$shortcut = New-Object -ComObject WScript.Shell
$sc = $shortcut.CreateShortcut('MaliciousLink.lnk')
$sc.TargetPath = 'C:\malicious\path\exploit.exe'
$sc.Save()

Detection Methods for CVE-2025-33053

Indicators of Compromise

Unexpected shortcut files in user directories
Anomalous network traffic patterns
Unusual executable launches

Detection Strategies

Monitoring for unusual executions from file paths not typically containing executables is key. Use EDR solutions to track process creation and shortcut file accesses.

Monitoring Recommendations

Enable file integrity monitoring on directories commonly used for shortcuts. Use network monitoring to detect attempts to download or access malicious file links.

How to Mitigate CVE-2025-33053

Immediate Actions Required

Restrict execution of shortcut files from untrusted sources
Educate users about the dangers of opening unknown shortcuts
Deploy network segmentation to isolate vulnerable systems

Patch Information

Microsoft has released patches which should be applied immediately to all affected systems. Visit Microsoft's update advisory for more information.

Workarounds

If patching is not immediately possible, implement GPO settings to disable the automatic execution of shortcut files and closely monitor affected systems.

bash

# Configuration example
Set-ItemProperty -Path "HKCU:\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer" -Name "NoRun" -Value 1