CVE-2025-59202 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416, found in Microsoft Windows 11 Version 25H2's Remote Desktop Services component. This vulnerability arises when the system improperly manages memory, freeing an object while it is still in use, which can lead to arbitrary code execution or privilege escalation. Specifically, an authorized attacker with local access and limited privileges can exploit this flaw to elevate their privileges to a higher level, potentially SYSTEM level. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require the attacker to have some level of authenticated access to the system. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.0 (high), reflecting the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, but mitigated somewhat by the attack complexity and requirement for local privileges. No public exploits or patches are currently available, indicating that the vulnerability is newly disclosed and may be targeted in the future. The flaw affects Windows 11 build 10.0.26200.0, specifically the 25H2 update, which is a recent version of the OS. Remote Desktop Services is a widely used feature for remote management and access, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for enterprise environments where RDS is enabled.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially in sectors relying heavily on Windows 11 25H2 and Remote Desktop Services for remote administration and access. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to gain elevated privileges locally, potentially leading to full system compromise, data breaches, or disruption of critical services. Confidentiality could be compromised by unauthorized access to sensitive data, integrity could be undermined by unauthorized changes to system configurations or files, and availability could be affected if attackers disrupt services or deploy ransomware. Organizations with remote workforce setups or those using RDS for internal operations are particularly vulnerable. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the high severity score and potential impact necessitate urgent attention. The threat could also affect compliance with European data protection regulations if exploited, leading to legal and reputational consequences.

1. Restrict local access to systems running Windows 11 25H2, especially those with Remote Desktop Services enabled, to trusted personnel only. 2. Implement strict access controls and monitoring on Remote Desktop Services usage to detect anomalous or unauthorized activities. 3. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to identify and block exploitation attempts. 4. Disable or limit Remote Desktop Services on systems where it is not essential to reduce the attack surface. 5. Prepare for rapid deployment of patches once Microsoft releases an official fix; subscribe to Microsoft security advisories for updates. 6. Conduct regular privilege audits to ensure users have the minimum necessary rights, reducing the impact of privilege escalation. 7. Use network segmentation to isolate critical systems and limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 8. Educate IT staff about this vulnerability and the importance of monitoring local privilege escalation attempts. 9. Consider deploying enhanced logging and alerting mechanisms for suspicious memory corruption or privilege escalation indicators. 10. Review and update incident response plans to include scenarios involving local privilege escalation via RDS.