CVE-2025-54916 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the NTFS file system driver of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). This vulnerability arises due to improper handling of input data within the NTFS driver, leading to a buffer overflow on the stack. An attacker with authorized local access and limited privileges can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary code in kernel mode, potentially escalating privileges and gaining full control over the affected system. The vulnerability does not require user interaction, increasing its risk profile. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8 indicates high severity, with the vector string AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H showing that the attack requires local access but low complexity and privileges, no user interaction, and impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability severely. No public exploits or patches have been reported at the time of publication, but the vulnerability's nature suggests it could be leveraged for privilege escalation or persistence by attackers. The affected product is specifically Windows 10 Version 1809, which is an older release that may still be in use in some enterprise environments. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-121, a common weakness related to stack-based buffer overflows, which are often exploited to execute arbitrary code or cause denial of service. Given the NTFS driver’s critical role in file system operations, exploitation could lead to system crashes or full system compromise.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially those still operating legacy Windows 10 Version 1809 systems. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to escalate privileges locally, bypass security controls, and execute arbitrary code with kernel-level permissions. This jeopardizes the confidentiality of sensitive data, the integrity of system operations, and the availability of critical services. Sectors such as government, finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure that rely on Windows 10 1809 may face operational disruptions or data breaches. The lack of a patch increases the window of exposure, and while no exploits are known in the wild, the vulnerability’s characteristics make it a likely target for attackers seeking persistence or lateral movement within networks. European organizations with strict compliance requirements may also face regulatory and reputational consequences if exploited.

1. Restrict local access to systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 by enforcing strict access controls and monitoring for unauthorized local logins. 2. Implement application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 3. Disable or limit NTFS-related operations for untrusted users or processes where feasible. 4. Prioritize upgrading affected systems to a supported and patched Windows version to eliminate exposure to this vulnerability. 5. Monitor security advisories from Microsoft closely for the release of official patches or workarounds and apply them immediately upon availability. 6. Conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing focusing on local privilege escalation vectors. 7. Educate IT staff and users about the risks of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities and the importance of maintaining updated systems. 8. Employ network segmentation to limit the impact of a compromised endpoint and prevent lateral movement.