CVE-2025-50174 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416, affecting the Windows Device Association Broker service in Microsoft Windows 11 Version 25H2 (build 10.0.26200.0). This vulnerability occurs when the service improperly manages memory, freeing an object while it is still in use, which can lead to memory corruption. An authorized attacker with low privileges on the local machine can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, effectively escalating their rights to higher system levels. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require local access and some level of privilege (low-level authorization). The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.0 reflects a high severity, with attack vector local (AV:L), attack complexity high (AC:H), 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). No public exploits are known at this time, but the vulnerability poses a significant risk if weaponized. The Device Association Broker service is responsible for managing device pairing and association, making it a critical component in Windows device management. Improper handling of this service can allow attackers to bypass security controls and gain elevated access, potentially compromising system security and sensitive data. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2025 and published in October 2025, with no patches currently available, emphasizing the need for proactive mitigation.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a significant risk due to the widespread use of Windows 11 25H2 in enterprise environments. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to escalate privileges locally, enabling them to install malware, access sensitive information, or disrupt critical services. This is particularly concerning for sectors with high security requirements such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that data breaches, system compromises, and operational disruptions could occur. Since exploitation requires local access, insider threats or attackers who have gained initial footholds through phishing or other means could leverage this vulnerability to deepen their control. The lack of current patches increases the urgency for organizations to implement compensating controls. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged in multi-stage attacks, making it a valuable tool for advanced persistent threats targeting European entities.

1. Monitor Microsoft security advisories closely and apply official patches immediately once released. 2. Restrict local access to systems running Windows 11 25H2, especially limiting low-privilege user accounts from accessing sensitive endpoints. 3. Implement application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect anomalous behavior related to the Device Association Broker service. 4. Harden device management policies to minimize unnecessary device pairing and association operations that invoke the vulnerable service. 5. Conduct regular privilege audits to ensure users have the minimum necessary rights, reducing the pool of potential attackers with local access. 6. Employ network segmentation to limit lateral movement opportunities if local privilege escalation is achieved. 7. Educate users about the risks of local compromise and enforce strong authentication mechanisms to prevent initial access. 8. Use security baselines and configuration management tools to maintain consistent and secure system states. 9. Prepare incident response plans specifically addressing local privilege escalation scenarios to enable rapid containment.