CVE-2025-55230 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-822 (Untrusted Pointer Dereference) affecting the Windows MBT Transport driver in Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The flaw arises when the driver dereferences pointers that have not been properly validated, allowing an authorized local attacker to manipulate memory references. This can lead to elevation of privileges, enabling the attacker to execute code with higher system privileges than originally granted. The vulnerability does not require user interaction and has a low attack complexity, but it does require the attacker to have local access with some level of authorization. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability is currently published but no known exploits have been reported in the wild. The absence of linked patches suggests that either mitigations are pending or that upgrading to a newer Windows version is recommended. The MBT Transport driver is a component related to Microsoft’s networking stack, and exploitation could allow attackers to bypass security controls and gain administrative privileges, potentially compromising the entire system. Given that Windows 10 Version 1809 is an older release, many organizations may have already migrated to newer versions, but legacy systems remain vulnerable if unpatched.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk especially to those still operating legacy Windows 10 Version 1809 systems, which may be found in industrial control environments, government agencies, or enterprises with strict change management policies. Successful exploitation allows local attackers to escalate privileges, potentially leading to full system compromise, data breaches, and disruption of critical services. Confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems are all at high risk. This could facilitate lateral movement within networks, enabling attackers to target sensitive data or critical infrastructure. The lack of user interaction requirement increases the risk of automated or stealthy attacks once local access is gained. Organizations with remote or shared workstation access, or those using thin clients and terminal servers running legacy Windows 10, are particularly vulnerable. The threat is amplified in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and public administration, where Windows 10 1809 may still be in use and where data protection regulations like GDPR impose strict compliance requirements.

Immediate mitigation involves upgrading affected systems from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a supported and patched Windows version, as no direct patches are currently linked for this CVE. Organizations should audit their environment to identify any remaining systems running this legacy version. Restrict local access to trusted users only, enforce strong access controls, and monitor for unusual privilege escalation attempts. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect suspicious behavior related to driver manipulation or privilege escalation. Disable or restrict the use of the MBT Transport driver if feasible, or apply group policies to limit its exposure. Implement network segmentation to isolate legacy systems and reduce the attack surface. Regularly review and update security policies to ensure legacy systems are either upgraded or adequately protected. Finally, maintain vigilance for any future patches or advisories from Microsoft addressing this vulnerability.