Junglewise Threat Intelligence

CVE-2026-78464: Microsoft Windows MIDI Service Module privilege escalation via race condition

CVE-2026-78464 · Severity: high · CVSS 7 · Published 2026-09-08

Executive brief

Windows MIDI Service Module is a core Windows component that handles MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) device communication. A race condition vulnerability allows an authorized local user to escalate their privileges to a higher level, potentially gaining administrative access to the system.

Technical details

A time-of-check time-of-use (TOCTOU) race condition exists in the Windows MIDI Service Module. The vulnerability occurs between a permission check and a subsequent file or resource operation, allowing a local authenticated attacker with low privileges to manipulate system state between the check and use to bypass intended restrictions. Exploitation requires local access and valid credentials on the target system. A successful exploit results in privilege escalation to a higher privilege level, potentially SYSTEM. Microsoft has released patches to eliminate the race condition window.

Affected products

  • Microsoft Windows MIDI Service Module

Timeline

  • 2026-09-08: disclosed

References