Executive brief
A security vulnerability has been identified in Windows Management Services, a core component used for managing and monitoring Windows systems. An attacker who already has basic access to a computer could exploit this flaw to gain full administrative control over the device. This could allow them to access sensitive data, install malicious software, or disrupt business operations.
Technical details
A use-after-free vulnerability (CWE-416) exists within Windows Management Services. The flaw is triggered when the service improperly handles objects in memory, allowing an authorized user with low privileges to execute code with elevated system permissions. The attack vector is local, requiring the attacker to already have a foothold on the target system. While the complexity is rated as high, successful exploitation results in a scope change, granting the attacker full control over the operating system. Microsoft has released security updates to address this issue across affected Windows and Windows Server versions.
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