CVE-2025-54116 is an improper access control vulnerability classified under CWE-284, found in Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809, specifically affecting Windows MultiPoint Services. This vulnerability allows an attacker with authorized local access to escalate privileges beyond their assigned rights. The flaw arises because the access control mechanisms within MultiPoint Services do not adequately enforce restrictions on certain operations, enabling privilege elevation. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.3 reflects a high severity, with attack vector being local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), requiring low privileges (PR:L) but user interaction (UI:R). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk to systems running the affected Windows 10 build (10.0.17763.0). Windows MultiPoint Services is typically used in educational and shared computing environments, which may increase the attack surface in such contexts. The vulnerability was reserved in July 2025 and published in September 2025, with no patch links yet available, indicating that remediation is pending or in progress.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized privilege escalation on systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 with MultiPoint Services enabled. This can compromise sensitive data confidentiality, allow attackers to modify or delete critical system files, and disrupt availability by executing malicious code with elevated privileges. Educational institutions and organizations using shared computing environments are particularly vulnerable. The risk is heightened in environments where legacy systems remain operational due to compatibility or budget constraints. Exploitation requires local access and user interaction, which limits remote attack vectors but does not eliminate insider threats or attacks via social engineering. The lack of current public exploits reduces immediate risk but underscores the need for proactive mitigation. The impact on operational continuity and data protection compliance (e.g., GDPR) could be significant if exploited.

1. Prioritize upgrading affected systems from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a supported, patched version of Windows 10 or later to eliminate exposure. 2. Until patches are available, restrict local user permissions strictly, especially limiting access to MultiPoint Services features. 3. Implement strict user account control policies and monitor for unusual privilege escalation attempts. 4. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect and block suspicious activities related to privilege escalation. 5. Educate users on the risks of social engineering and the importance of not executing untrusted code or actions requiring elevated privileges. 6. Regularly audit and inventory systems to identify those still running the vulnerable Windows 10 build and MultiPoint Services. 7. Once Microsoft releases patches, deploy them promptly following testing in controlled environments. 8. Consider network segmentation to isolate legacy systems and reduce the risk of lateral movement after local compromise.