CVE-2025-55326 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 found in the Connected Devices Platform Service (Cdpsvc) component of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). This vulnerability arises when the service improperly manages memory, allowing an attacker to reference memory after it has been freed. Exploitation can be triggered remotely over a network without requiring prior authentication, although user interaction is necessary, and the attack complexity is high. Successful exploitation enables remote code execution with the privileges of the Cdpsvc service, which can lead to full system compromise, affecting confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.5, reflecting high severity with network attack vector, high attack complexity, no privileges required, and user interaction required. The vulnerability is currently published with no known exploits in the wild and no patches publicly available yet. The Connected Devices Platform Service is responsible for device connectivity features, and its compromise could allow attackers to manipulate connected device data or pivot within a network. Given the affected Windows version is 1809, which is an older release, many organizations may still be running it in legacy environments, increasing the risk exposure.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-55326 can be significant, especially for those still operating Windows 10 Version 1809 in production or legacy environments. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized remote code execution, enabling attackers to gain control over affected systems, steal sensitive data, disrupt operations, or deploy further malware. Critical sectors such as finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and government could face operational disruptions and data breaches. The vulnerability’s network-based attack vector increases the risk for organizations with exposed services or insufficient network segmentation. Since user interaction is required, phishing or social engineering could be used to trigger exploitation. The lack of available patches means organizations must rely on compensating controls until updates are released. Legacy systems that cannot be upgraded pose a persistent risk, potentially serving as entry points for attackers targeting European infrastructure and enterprises.

1. Upgrade affected systems to a supported and fully patched version of Windows 10 or later to eliminate the vulnerability. 2. If upgrading is not immediately possible, restrict network access to the Connected Devices Platform Service (Cdpsvc) using firewall rules or network segmentation to limit exposure. 3. Implement strict user awareness training to reduce the risk of user interaction exploitation vectors such as phishing. 4. Monitor network traffic for unusual activity related to Cdpsvc communications and deploy intrusion detection systems tuned to detect exploitation attempts. 5. Disable the Connected Devices Platform Service on systems where it is not required to reduce the attack surface. 6. Apply principle of least privilege and ensure endpoint protection solutions are up to date to detect and block potential exploitation attempts. 7. Regularly audit legacy systems and plan for their timely decommissioning or upgrade to supported platforms.