CVE-2025-48806 is a high-severity use-after-free vulnerability identified in the Microsoft MPEG-2 Video Extension component of Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). This vulnerability, classified under CWE-416, arises when the system improperly manages memory, specifically freeing memory that is still in use, which can lead to execution of arbitrary code by an attacker. The flaw allows an authorized attacker with local access and low privileges to execute code on the affected system without requiring user interaction. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity, with attack vector local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), privileges required low (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no known exploits are currently observed in the wild, the vulnerability presents a significant risk due to the potential for local privilege escalation and code execution. The lack of available patches at the time of publication increases the urgency for mitigation and monitoring. This vulnerability specifically affects Windows 10 Version 1809, which is an older version of Windows 10, meaning that systems not updated to more recent versions remain vulnerable.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a considerable risk, especially for enterprises and government agencies that continue to operate legacy Windows 10 Version 1809 systems. Exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code locally, potentially leading to full system compromise, data breaches, or disruption of critical services. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means sensitive data could be exposed or altered, and operational continuity could be jeopardized. Given the local attack vector and low privilege requirement, insider threats or attackers who gain limited access could escalate privileges and move laterally within networks. This is particularly concerning for sectors with strict data protection requirements under GDPR, such as finance, healthcare, and public administration. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as exploit development could follow quickly once details are public. Organizations relying on Windows 10 Version 1809 should consider the risk of targeted attacks, especially in environments where legacy systems are prevalent.

Organizations should prioritize upgrading affected systems to a supported and patched version of Windows 10 or later, as Windows 10 Version 1809 is an older release and may no longer receive security updates. In the absence of an official patch, applying strict access controls to limit local user privileges can reduce the attack surface. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious activity related to the MPEG-2 Video Extension or unusual memory usage patterns. Disable or restrict the use of the Microsoft MPEG-2 Video Extension if it is not essential for business operations. Regularly audit and inventory systems to identify those running the vulnerable version and isolate or segment them within the network to limit potential lateral movement. Educate users about the risks of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities and enforce strong local account management policies. Maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from potential compromises. Monitor threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploit code or indicators of compromise related to CVE-2025-48806.