CVE-2026-87694: Microsoft Windows Installer use-after-free privilege escalation

CVE-2026-87694 · Severity: high · CVSS 7.8 · Published 2026-10-13

Windows Installer, a core component used to install software on Windows systems, contains a use-after-free vulnerability that allows an attacker with local access to escalate their privileges to administrator level. An attacker exploiting this flaw could gain full control over the affected system, potentially installing malware, stealing data, or disrupting business operations.

Technologies: Microsoft Windows Installer. Vendors: Microsoft.

Quick answers

Is CVE-2026-87694 exploited in the wild?
No. Junglewise Threat Intelligence has no report of CVE-2026-87694 being exploited in the wild.
How severe is CVE-2026-87694?
High severity, with a CVSS score of 7.8, published 13 October 2026.
Which products and versions are affected?
Microsoft Windows Installer.
Is there a fix for CVE-2026-87694?
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-2026-87694 attacked?
It is attacked with local access, in an operating system.
Am I affected by CVE-2026-87694?
Check whether you run Microsoft Windows Installer. 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 use-after-free vulnerability exists in Windows Installer that can be triggered by an authorized local attacker to escalate privileges. The vulnerability requires local access and existing user credentials on the target system. Successful exploitation grants the attacker elevated (administrator) privileges on the affected Windows system.

Affected products

  • Microsoft Windows Installer

Timeline

  • 2026-10-13: disclosed

References

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