CVE-2026-83768: Windows Kernel heap-based buffer overflow privilege escalation

CVE-2026-83768 · Severity: high · CVSS 7.8 · Published 2026-10-13

Windows Kernel contains a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability that allows an authenticated local attacker to elevate their privileges on the system. An attacker with a user account could exploit this flaw to gain administrative control, potentially enabling complete system compromise, data theft, or malware installation.

Technologies: Microsoft Windows Kernel. Vendors: Microsoft.

Quick answers

Is CVE-2026-83768 exploited in the wild?
No. Junglewise Threat Intelligence has no report of CVE-2026-83768 being exploited in the wild.
How severe is CVE-2026-83768?
High severity, with a CVSS score of 7.8, published 13 October 2026.
Which products and versions are affected?
Microsoft Windows Kernel.
Is there a fix for CVE-2026-83768?
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-2026-83768 attacked?
It is attacked with local access, in an operating system.
Am I affected by CVE-2026-83768?
Check whether you run Microsoft Windows Kernel. 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 heap-based buffer overflow in the Windows Kernel permits privilege escalation when exploited by an authenticated local attacker. The vulnerability requires either user interaction or prior local access. Successful exploitation grants the attacker elevated (administrative) privileges on the target system.

Affected products

  • Microsoft Windows Kernel

Timeline

  • 2026-10-13: disclosed

References

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