Remote Code Execution in Microsoft Remote Desktop Client via Relative Path Traversal
CVE-2025-48817 is a remote code execution vulnerability in Microsoft Remote Desktop Client (including mstsc.exe) caused by improper validation and normalization of relative file paths during RDP session file transfer negotiation. The flaw is described as a relative path traversal issue that can allow attacker-controlled path elements such as directory traversal sequences to escape intended directory restrictions. According to the provided content, exploitation occurs when a victim uses a vulnerable Remote Desktop Client to connect to an attacker-controlled Remote Desktop Server; the content also notes a possible man-in-the-middle scenario on a legitimate RDP connection. Successful exploitation can lead to arbitrary file write conditions and subsequent code execution on the client, including via DLL hijacking. Microsoft associated the issue with remote code execution and also referenced improper access control in addition to relative path traversal.
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Impact
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Mitigation
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Exploits
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No public exploit code observed for this vulnerability.
Affected products & vendors
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Recent activity
2 sources tracked across advisories, community write-ups, and news. New activity surfaces here as Mallory finds it.
A path traversal vulnerability in Microsoft's Remote Desktop Client (mstsc.exe) that can enable arbitrary file writes, DLL hijacking, and ultimately remote code execution.
A remote code execution vulnerability in Microsoft Remote Desktop Client caused by relative path traversal and improper access control. Exploitation requires a user to connect with the vulnerable RDP client to an attacker-controlled Remote Desktop Server.
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Every observed campaign linking this CVE to a named adversary.
Malware families riding this exploit, with evidence and IOCs.
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Cross-references every affected SKU, including bundled OEM variants.
Community discussion across Reddit, Mastodon, and other social sources.