CVE-2025-50153 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416, found in the Desktop Windows Manager (DWM) component of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). This vulnerability arises when the system improperly handles memory, freeing an object while it is still in use, which can lead to arbitrary code execution or privilege escalation. An authorized attacker with local access can exploit this flaw to elevate their privileges on the affected system without requiring user interaction. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating high severity, with attack vector local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), requiring privileges (PR:L), and no user interaction (UI:N). The impact metrics show high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts (C:H/I:H/A:H), meaning an attacker could gain full control over the system. The vulnerability is currently published but has no known exploits in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. The flaw is significant because Windows 10 Version 1809 is still in use in many enterprise environments, especially where legacy applications or hardware dependencies exist. Exploiting this vulnerability could allow attackers to bypass security controls, execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, and potentially move laterally within networks.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk, particularly those still operating Windows 10 Version 1809 in production environments. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of critical services, and compromise of system integrity. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure are especially vulnerable due to the potential for privilege escalation leading to broader network compromise. The local attack vector means that attackers need some form of access to the system, which could be gained via phishing, insider threats, or other initial footholds. Given the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, exploitation could result in data breaches, ransomware deployment, or sabotage of essential services. The lack of current known exploits provides a window for mitigation, but organizations must act proactively to prevent future attacks.

Organizations should prioritize upgrading from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a more recent, supported version of Windows 10 or Windows 11 to eliminate exposure to this vulnerability. Until upgrades are feasible, implement strict access controls to limit local user privileges and restrict physical and remote access to systems running the affected OS version. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious activities indicative of exploitation attempts. Regularly audit and harden user accounts to minimize privilege levels and disable unnecessary local accounts. Monitor security advisories from Microsoft for the release of official patches and apply them promptly once available. Additionally, conduct internal penetration testing and vulnerability assessments focusing on privilege escalation vectors to identify and remediate potential exploitation paths. Educate users about the risks of local access threats and enforce strong authentication mechanisms to reduce the risk of unauthorized local access.