CVE-2025-59294 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-200 (Exposure of Sensitive Information to an Unauthorized Actor) affecting Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The flaw resides in the Windows Taskbar Live feature, which can inadvertently disclose sensitive information to an attacker who has physical access to the device. The attack vector requires physical presence (AV:P), no privileges (PR:N), but user interaction (UI:R), indicating that the attacker must interact with the device physically and trigger some user interface action to exploit the vulnerability. The vulnerability does not allow modification of data or disruption of system availability, only unauthorized disclosure of information. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 2.1, reflecting a low-severity issue primarily due to the physical access requirement and limited impact. No patches or known exploits have been reported as of the publication date (October 14, 2025). The vulnerability is significant in scenarios where devices are left unattended or accessible to unauthorized individuals, such as in shared office spaces or public areas. Since Windows 10 Version 1809 is an older release, many organizations may have already migrated to newer versions, but legacy systems remain at risk. The lack of a patch means organizations must rely on mitigating controls until an official fix is available.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-59294 is primarily related to confidentiality breaches due to unauthorized information disclosure. Although the vulnerability does not affect system integrity or availability, sensitive data exposure can lead to privacy violations, compliance issues (e.g., GDPR), and potential intelligence gathering by malicious actors. Organizations with devices running Windows 10 Version 1809 in environments where physical access controls are weak are particularly vulnerable. This includes sectors such as government, finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure where sensitive information is processed. The requirement for physical access limits remote exploitation, reducing the risk of widespread attacks but increasing the importance of physical security measures. The absence of known exploits in the wild suggests limited active threat but does not preclude future exploitation attempts. Legacy systems in use within European enterprises and public institutions may be targeted for reconnaissance or data leakage.

1. Restrict physical access to devices running Windows 10 Version 1809, especially in public or shared environments, by enforcing strict access controls and surveillance. 2. Disable or limit the use of Windows Taskbar Live features if they are not essential, reducing the attack surface for this vulnerability. 3. Encourage or mandate upgrading to supported and patched versions of Windows, as Windows 10 Version 1809 is an older release with known vulnerabilities. 4. Implement endpoint security solutions that monitor for unusual user interactions or unauthorized physical access attempts. 5. Educate users about the risks of leaving devices unattended and the importance of locking screens when not in use. 6. Monitor vendor advisories for patches or updates addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once available. 7. Conduct regular physical security audits to identify and remediate potential access weaknesses in organizational facilities.