CVE-2025-50152 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability classified under CWE-125, affecting the Windows 10 Version 1809 kernel (build 17763.0). The vulnerability arises due to improper bounds checking when the kernel accesses memory, allowing an attacker with authorized local access to read beyond allocated memory buffers. This can lead to disclosure of sensitive kernel memory contents and potentially enable privilege escalation by corrupting kernel data structures or bypassing security controls. The attack vector requires local access with low privileges (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), and low attack complexity (AC:L), making it feasible for attackers who have already compromised a low-privilege account or gained limited access. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability (all rated high), as an attacker could gain SYSTEM-level privileges, execute arbitrary code in kernel mode, or cause system instability. Although no public exploits are reported yet, the vulnerability's characteristics and high CVSS score (7.8) indicate a significant risk. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2025 and published in October 2025, with no patches currently available, increasing the urgency for mitigation. This flaw is particularly critical in environments where Windows 10 Version 1809 remains deployed, especially in legacy systems or specialized industrial setups.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a serious risk, especially for those still operating Windows 10 Version 1809 in production environments. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to escalate privileges from a low-privilege user to SYSTEM level, enabling full control over affected systems. This could lead to data breaches, disruption of critical services, and compromise of sensitive information. Industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and government agencies that rely on legacy Windows 10 deployments are particularly vulnerable. The ability to escalate privileges locally without user interaction increases the threat from insider attacks or malware that gains initial foothold with limited privileges. The lack of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the high severity and ease of exploitation mean that European organizations must act swiftly to prevent potential exploitation. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged in multi-stage attacks targeting critical infrastructure or high-value assets within Europe.

1. Prioritize upgrading or patching Windows 10 Version 1809 systems as soon as Microsoft releases an official security update addressing CVE-2025-50152. 2. Until patches are available, restrict local access to critical systems by enforcing strict access controls and limiting user privileges to the minimum necessary. 3. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious local privilege escalation attempts. 4. Conduct regular audits of user accounts and remove or disable unnecessary local accounts to reduce attack surface. 5. Implement network segmentation to isolate legacy systems running Windows 10 1809 from sensitive network segments. 6. Educate IT staff and users about the risks of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities and encourage reporting of unusual system behavior. 7. Consider upgrading to a supported and fully patched Windows version where feasible to eliminate exposure to this and other legacy vulnerabilities. 8. Monitor threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploit code or attack campaigns targeting this vulnerability to enable rapid response.