CVE-2016-0040VulnerabilityPublished 03/28/2022Updated 10/24/2026

CVE-2016-0040: Microsoft Windows Kernel Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

Affects Microsoft WindowsSource CISA KEV

Severity

High

No CVSS score published yet

Exploitation: Actively exploited – in CISA KEV since 03/28/2022
KEV deadline: 04/18/2022
EPSS: 24.3% chance of exploitation in 30 days – higher than 97% of CVEs

What to do

CISA required action

Apply updates per vendor instructions.

nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2016-0040 (opens in a new tab)

Description

CVE-2016-0040 is a privilege escalation vulnerability in the Microsoft Windows kernel that allows local users to gain elevated privileges by running a specially crafted application. This vulnerability has been exploited in the wild. No specific affected versions or patch information is provided in the available data.

Summary

This vulnerability exists in the Microsoft Windows kernel and enables local users to escalate their privileges through a crafted application. The flaw is identified as CWE-264 (Permissions, Privileges, and Access Controls). It has been observed to be exploited in the wild, indicating active use by attackers. However, no detailed information on affected Windows versions or remediation status is provided in the source data.

Impact

Successful exploitation allows a local attacker to gain elevated privileges on the affected Windows system, potentially enabling unauthorized actions that require higher privileges. This can lead to further system compromise depending on the attacker's goals and system configuration.

Mitigation

Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Since no patch or official fix information is provided, it is recommended to monitor Microsoft security advisories for updates addressing CVE-2016-0040.

Weaknesses

CWE-264Unclassified weakness (opens in a new tab)

What to do

Description

AnalysisAI-generated, updated 10/24/2026, 11:11:45 UTC

Weaknesses

References

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