Executive brief
A security vulnerability has been identified in the Windows Graphics Kernel, a core component of the Windows operating system responsible for rendering visual content. 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
This vulnerability is classified as a Use-After-Free (CWE-416) within the Windows Graphics Kernel. The flaw occurs when the kernel continues to use a memory pointer after the memory it points to has been freed, leading to memory corruption. An attacker with local access and low-level privileges can exploit this condition by running a specially crafted application. Successful exploitation allows the attacker to execute code with elevated privileges, typically SYSTEM, bypassing standard security boundaries. Microsoft has released security updates to address this issue across various versions of Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server.
Affected products
- Microsoft Windows 10 1809, 21H2, 22H2
- Microsoft Windows 11 24H2, 25H2, 26H1
- Microsoft Windows Server 2019
- Microsoft Windows Server 2022
Timeline
- 2026-07-14: disclosed
- 2026-07-14: advisory