CVE-2025-49732 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the Microsoft Graphics Component of Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). This vulnerability is classified under CWE-122, which pertains to improper handling of memory buffers leading to overflow conditions on the heap. The flaw allows an authorized local attacker—meaning the attacker must have some level of legitimate access to the system—to execute a privilege escalation attack. By exploiting this vulnerability, the attacker can corrupt memory in a way that enables them to elevate their privileges beyond their current level, potentially gaining SYSTEM-level access. This could allow the attacker to execute arbitrary code, install programs, view, change, or delete data, or create new accounts with full user rights. The vulnerability does not require user interaction (UI:N) and has a low attack complexity (AC:L), but it does require the attacker to have some privileges already (PR:L). The scope of the vulnerability is unchanged (S:U), meaning the impact is confined to the vulnerable component without affecting other system components. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating a high severity level, with high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). No public exploits are currently known in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet, which suggests that mitigation may rely on other defensive measures until an official update is released. The vulnerability was reserved on June 9, 2025, and published on July 8, 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for those still operating legacy systems or environments running Windows 10 Version 1809. The ability for a local attacker to escalate privileges can lead to full system compromise, data breaches, and disruption of critical services. This is particularly concerning for sectors with sensitive or regulated data such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that exploitation could lead to unauthorized data access, data manipulation, or denial of service. Since the attack requires local access, insider threats or attackers who have gained initial footholds through other means (e.g., phishing, malware) could leverage this vulnerability to deepen their control over affected systems. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk, but the absence of patches means organizations remain exposed. European organizations with compliance obligations under GDPR and other data protection laws could face regulatory and reputational consequences if this vulnerability is exploited to compromise personal data.

1. Immediate mitigation should focus on minimizing local access to systems running Windows 10 Version 1809. Implement strict access controls and monitor for unusual local privilege escalation attempts. 2. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect and block suspicious activities related to memory corruption or privilege escalation. 3. Use least privilege principles to limit user rights and reduce the attack surface. 4. Regularly audit and harden systems, disabling unnecessary services and accounts that could be leveraged by attackers. 5. Until an official patch is released, consider isolating or segmenting vulnerable systems to limit potential lateral movement. 6. Maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from potential exploitation. 7. Monitor vendor advisories closely for patch releases and apply updates promptly once available. 8. Conduct user awareness training to reduce the risk of initial compromise that could lead to local access by attackers.