Executive brief
A security vulnerability has been identified in the Windows Secure Kernel, a core component of the operating system designed to provide a high-security environment for sensitive data. An attacker who already has basic access to a system could exploit this flaw to gain full administrative control. This could lead to the unauthorized access of sensitive information or the ability to disrupt critical system operations.
Technical details
A use-after-free (CWE-416) vulnerability exists within the Windows Secure Kernel Mode. The flaw is triggered when the system continues to use a memory pointer after it has been freed, leading to memory corruption. To exploit this, an attacker must first have local access to the target system with low-level user privileges. Successful exploitation allows the attacker to execute code with elevated privileges, potentially gaining full control over the operating system. Microsoft has released security updates to address this issue across affected versions of Windows 11 and Windows Server 2025.
Affected products
- Microsoft Windows 11 Version 24H2 10.0.26100.0 to 10.0.26100.8875
- Microsoft Windows 11 Version 25H2 10.0.26200.0 to 10.0.26200.8875
- Microsoft Windows 11 version 26H1 10.0.26100.0 to 10.0.28000.2525
- Microsoft Windows Server 2025 10.0.26100.0 to 10.0.26100.33158
Timeline
- 2026-07-14: disclosed
- 2026-07-14: advisory