Executive brief
A security vulnerability has been identified in the Windows Runtime, a core component of the Windows operating system. 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 business operations.
Technical details
A use-after-free (UAF) vulnerability exists in the Windows Runtime (WinRT) component of Microsoft Windows. The flaw is triggered when the system incorrectly manages memory objects, allowing an attacker to reuse memory after it has been freed. To exploit this, an attacker must first have local access to the system with low-level user privileges. Successful exploitation allows the attacker to execute code with elevated privileges, potentially gaining SYSTEM-level access. The attack complexity is rated as high, suggesting specific timing or system conditions are required for a successful exploit. 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 24H2, 25H2, 26H1
- Microsoft Windows Server 2019 All versions
- Microsoft Windows Server 2022 All versions
Timeline
- 2026-07-14: disclosed
- 2026-07-14: advisory