CVE-2026-58636: Microsoft PC Manager privilege escalation via improper link resolution

CVE-2026-58636 · Severity: high · CVSS 7.8 · Published 2026-07-14

Microsoft PC Manager, a tool used to optimize and manage Windows system performance, contains a security flaw that could allow a user with limited access to gain full administrative control over a computer. By exploiting how the application handles file links, an attacker who already has a basic account on the machine can bypass security restrictions to access or modify sensitive system files. This could lead to a complete compromise of the affected device, including the theft of data or the installation of malicious software.

Technologies: Microsoft PC Manager. Vendors: Microsoft.

Quick answers

Is CVE-2026-58636 exploited in the wild?
No. Junglewise Threat Intelligence has no report of CVE-2026-58636 being exploited in the wild.
How severe is CVE-2026-58636?
High severity, with a CVSS score of 7.8, published 14 July 2026.
Which products and versions are affected?
Microsoft PC Manager 1.0.0 to 3.21.6.0.
Is there a fix for CVE-2026-58636?
No fixed version is recorded yet. Check the vendor's advisory in the references below. If you run it, Junglewise drafts a mitigation that fits your setup and applies it once you approve, with senior security engineers behind it.
How is CVE-2026-58636 attacked?
It is attacked with local access, in a network appliance.
Am I affected by CVE-2026-58636?
Check whether you run Microsoft PC Manager at an affected version. Junglewise does that check for you around the clock: connect your code, cloud and domains, and it matches new vulnerabilities like this one against what you actually run and tells you when one reaches you.

Technical details

A privilege escalation vulnerability exists in Microsoft PC Manager due to improper link resolution (CWE-59), commonly known as a symlink or link-following attack. The application fails to properly validate file paths before performing file operations, allowing a local attacker with low privileges to create symbolic links or junctions that redirect the application's high-privileged file actions to sensitive system locations. By successfully exploiting this flaw, an attacker can achieve SYSTEM-level privileges on the local machine. The vulnerability affects versions 1.0.0 through 3.21.6.0 and has been addressed in subsequent updates.

Affected products

  • Microsoft PC Manager 1.0.0 to 3.21.6.0

Timeline

  • 2026-07-14: disclosed
  • 2026-07-14: advisory

References

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