Executive brief
A security vulnerability has been identified in the Windows kernel component responsible for managing graphics and windowing. 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 a use-after-free (UAF) located in the Win32K kernel-mode driver (CWE-416). The flaw occurs when the system continues to use a memory pointer after it has been freed, which can be manipulated by a local attacker to execute arbitrary code in kernel mode. To exploit this, an attacker must first have the ability to execute code on the target system with low privileges. Successful exploitation grants the attacker SYSTEM-level privileges, effectively bypassing local security boundaries. Microsoft has released security updates to address this issue across affected versions of Windows and Windows Server.
Affected products
- Microsoft Windows 10 1607, 1809, 21H2, 22H2
- Microsoft Windows 11 24H2, 25H2, 26H1
- Microsoft Windows Server 2016 All versions
Timeline
- 2026-07-14: disclosed
- 2026-07-14: advisory