Executive brief
A security vulnerability exists in Windows Management Services, a core component used for managing and monitoring Windows operating systems. An attacker who already has basic access to a computer could exploit this flaw to gain full administrative control over the system. This could allow them to access sensitive data, install malicious software, or disrupt operations on the affected machine.
Technical details
A privilege escalation vulnerability exists in Windows Management Services due to a use-after-free condition combined with a race condition (CWE-362). An authenticated attacker with low privileges can exploit this flaw by executing a specially crafted application locally. Successful exploitation allows the attacker to gain SYSTEM privileges by manipulating shared resources with improper synchronization. The vulnerability has been addressed in Microsoft's January 2026 security updates.
Affected products
- Microsoft Windows 10 1809, 21H2, 22H2
- Microsoft Windows 11 22H3, 23H2, 24H2, 25H2
- Microsoft Windows Server 2019 All versions
- Microsoft Windows Server 2022 All versions
Timeline
- 2026-01-13: disclosed
- 2026-01-13: advisory