Executive brief
Windows Message Queuing is a messaging service that enables applications to communicate reliably across networks. A heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability allows an authenticated attacker to execute arbitrary code and elevate their privileges to system level, potentially enabling them to take full control of the affected computer.
Technical details
A heap-based buffer overflow exists in Windows Message Queuing due to improper bounds checking when processing messages. An authorized attacker who can authenticate to the Message Queuing service can trigger this overflow to corrupt heap memory and achieve local privilege escalation. The vulnerability requires valid authentication credentials, limiting the attack surface to users with existing access to the system. Exploitation allows an attacker to run code with SYSTEM privileges. A security patch from Microsoft is expected to be available.
Affected products
- Microsoft Windows Message Queuing <UNKNOWN>
Timeline
- 2026-08-11: disclosed