CVE-2025-59196 is a race condition vulnerability classified under CWE-362 affecting the Windows SSDP (Simple Service Discovery Protocol) Service in Microsoft Windows 11 Version 25H2 (build 10.0.26200.0). This vulnerability arises from improper synchronization when multiple threads or processes concurrently access shared resources within the SSDP service. An authorized local attacker can exploit this flaw to elevate privileges on the system, potentially gaining SYSTEM-level access. The attack vector requires local access (AV:L) and has high attack complexity (AC:H), meaning the attacker must have some knowledge and conditions to trigger the race condition successfully. No user interaction is needed (UI:N), and the scope of impact is unchanged (S:U), but the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). The vulnerability was reserved on 2025-09-10 and published on 2025-10-14, with no known exploits in the wild and no patches released at the time of reporting. The SSDP service is commonly enabled on Windows systems to facilitate network device discovery, making it a critical component. Exploiting this vulnerability could allow attackers to bypass security controls and execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, leading to full system compromise. Given the complexity, exploitation is not trivial but feasible for skilled attackers with local access.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially in environments where Windows 11 Version 25H2 is deployed extensively. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to escalate privileges locally, bypassing user restrictions and potentially gaining control over critical systems. This can lead to data breaches, disruption of services, and compromise of sensitive information. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure are particularly vulnerable due to the potential impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The lack of available patches increases the window of exposure, and the requirement for local access means insider threats or attackers who have already gained initial footholds could leverage this vulnerability to deepen their control. Additionally, the SSDP service’s role in network device discovery means that compromised systems could be used to pivot attacks within internal networks, increasing lateral movement risks.

1. Monitor and restrict local access to systems running Windows 11 Version 25H2, especially limiting administrative privileges to trusted personnel only. 2. Disable or restrict the Windows SSDP Service where it is not required, reducing the attack surface. 3. Implement strict endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to identify unusual behavior related to privilege escalation attempts or SSDP service anomalies. 4. Apply network segmentation to limit lateral movement opportunities if a system is compromised. 5. Regularly audit and review local user accounts and permissions to minimize the number of users with local access. 6. Once Microsoft releases an official patch, prioritize immediate deployment across all affected systems. 7. Employ application whitelisting and privilege management tools to prevent unauthorized execution of elevated processes. 8. Conduct internal penetration testing and vulnerability assessments focusing on local privilege escalation vectors to identify and remediate weaknesses proactively.