CVE-2025-59220 is a race condition vulnerability classified under CWE-362, found in the Windows Bluetooth Service component of Microsoft Windows Server 2022 (build 10.0.20348.0). The flaw arises due to improper synchronization when multiple threads concurrently access shared resources, leading to a race condition. This condition can be exploited by an attacker with local authorized access to escalate privileges on the system. The attacker must have at least low-level privileges and the ability to execute code locally, but no user interaction is required. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability by potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, thereby compromising the entire system. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.0, reflecting high severity with attack vector local, attack complexity high, privileges required low, and no user interaction. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, and no patches have been released yet. The vulnerability is significant because Windows Server 2022 is widely used in enterprise environments, and Bluetooth services are often enabled for device connectivity. Improper synchronization bugs like race conditions are notoriously difficult to detect and can lead to unpredictable system behavior, making this a critical concern for system stability and security.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk, particularly for enterprises and data centers relying on Windows Server 2022 for critical infrastructure. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized privilege escalation, enabling attackers to gain administrative control, access sensitive data, disrupt services, or deploy further malware. This is especially concerning for sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and telecommunications, where Windows Server 2022 adoption is high and data protection regulations like GDPR impose strict requirements. The local access requirement limits remote exploitation but insider threats or compromised user accounts could leverage this vulnerability. The lack of a patch increases exposure time, and the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability could lead to severe operational and reputational damage. Additionally, Bluetooth services may be enabled in environments where wireless device connectivity is critical, increasing the attack surface.

Until an official patch is released, European organizations should implement the following mitigations: 1) Restrict local access to Windows Server 2022 systems by enforcing strict access controls and monitoring user activities to detect suspicious behavior. 2) Disable the Windows Bluetooth Service on servers where Bluetooth functionality is not required to eliminate the attack vector. 3) Apply the principle of least privilege rigorously, ensuring users and services operate with minimal necessary permissions. 4) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for abnormal process behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 5) Conduct regular audits of server configurations and patch management processes to ensure timely application of future updates. 6) Educate system administrators about the vulnerability and the importance of restricting local access. 7) Prepare incident response plans specifically addressing privilege escalation scenarios. These targeted measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on the specific attack vector and environment.