Executive brief
A security vulnerability exists in the Windows Unified Consent System, a component that manages user permissions and privacy prompts. 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 view sensitive data, install malicious software, or disrupt business operations.
Technical details
A use-after-free (UAF) vulnerability exists within the Windows Unified Consent System (CWE-416). The flaw is triggered when the system improperly handles objects in memory, allowing an attacker to execute code with elevated privileges. To exploit this, an attacker must first gain local access to the target system with standard user permissions. Successful exploitation allows the attacker to achieve SYSTEM-level privileges, bypassing security boundaries. Microsoft has released security updates to address this issue across affected versions of Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server 2025.
Affected products
- Microsoft Windows 10 21H2, 22H2
- Microsoft Windows 11 24H2, 25H2, 26H1
- Microsoft Windows Server 2025 All versions
Timeline
- 2026-07-14: disclosed
- 2026-07-14: advisory