Executive brief
The Windows Embedded Mode Service, a component of the Windows operating system, contains a use-after-free memory vulnerability that allows an authenticated local attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. Exploitation requires that an attacker already has local access to the system and can escalate their permissions to administrator level, potentially compromising system integrity and enabling further malware installation.
Technical details
A use-after-free vulnerability exists in the Windows Embedded Mode Service, stemming from improper memory management of freed objects. The flaw allows an authenticated attacker with local system access to trigger the vulnerability through specially crafted local interactions or API calls. Upon successful exploitation, an attacker can achieve privilege escalation to SYSTEM or administrator level, gaining complete control over the affected system. Patches are available through Microsoft's standard security update process.
Affected products
- Microsoft Windows <UNKNOWN>
Timeline
- 2026-09-08: disclosed