Executive brief
A security vulnerability has been identified in the Windows Desktop Window Manager (DWM), the component responsible for rendering the visual interface 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 view sensitive data, install malicious software, or disrupt business operations.
Technical details
A type confusion vulnerability (CWE-843) exists in the Windows Desktop Window Manager (DWM) due to the improper handling of resources using incompatible types. An attacker with low-privileged local access can exploit this flaw by executing a specially crafted application to trigger the type confusion. Successful exploitation allows the attacker to gain elevated system privileges, potentially leading to a full compromise of the affected host. 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 Version 1607 10.0.14393.0 to 10.0.14393.9339
- Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 10.0.17763.0 to 10.0.17763.9020
- Microsoft Windows 10 Version 21H2 10.0.19044.0 to 10.0.19044.7548
- Microsoft Windows 10 Version 22H2 10.0.19045.0 to 10.0.19045.7548
- Microsoft Windows 11 Version 24H2 10.0.26100.0 to 10.0.26100.8875
- Microsoft Windows Server 2016 10.0.14393.0 to 10.0.14393.9339
Timeline
- 2026-07-14: disclosed
- 2026-07-14: advisory