CVE-2020-0986VulnerabilityPublished 11/03/2021Updated 10/24/2026

CVE-2020-0986: 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 11/03/2021
KEV deadline: 05/03/2022
EPSS: 16.4% chance of exploitation in 30 days – higher than 96% of CVEs

What to do

CISA required action

Apply updates per vendor instructions.

nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2020-0986 (opens in a new tab)

Description

CVE-2020-0986 is a high-severity vulnerability in the Microsoft Windows kernel that allows attackers to escalate privileges and execute code in kernel mode by exploiting an unspecified flaw in memory object handling. This vulnerability has been exploited in the wild. No specific affected versions or patch information is provided in the available data.

Summary

Microsoft Windows kernel contains an unspecified vulnerability related to handling objects in memory, which enables attackers to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code in kernel mode. The vulnerability is identified as CVE-2020-0986 and is associated with CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write). It has been observed to be exploited in the wild. No detailed technical specifics or affected Windows versions are provided in the source data.

Impact

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability allows attackers to gain elevated privileges on affected Windows systems, potentially leading to full control of the kernel and bypass of security restrictions. This can facilitate further malicious actions such as installing persistent malware or disabling security controls.

Mitigation

Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Since no patch or official fix information is provided, users should monitor Microsoft security advisories for updates and apply any released patches promptly. Employ standard privilege management and restrict access to trusted users to reduce risk until a fix is available.

Weaknesses

CWE-787Out-of-bounds Write (opens in a new tab)

What to do

Description

AnalysisAI-generated, updated 10/24/2026, 09:19:33 UTC

Weaknesses

References

Related threats