CVE-2025-59511 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-73 (External Control of File Name or Path) found in the Windows WLAN Service component of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). This flaw allows an authorized local attacker to manipulate file names or paths used by the WLAN Service, potentially leading to privilege escalation. The attacker must have some level of local privileges but does not require user interaction to exploit the vulnerability. By controlling file paths externally, the attacker can cause the system to execute unintended files or commands with elevated privileges, thereby compromising system confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.8, reflecting high severity due to its impact and relatively low complexity of exploitation. No public exploits or active exploitation in the wild have been reported as of the publication date (November 11, 2025). The vulnerability affects a widely deployed Windows 10 version, which remains in use in many enterprise environments. The lack of available patches at the time of reporting necessitates immediate attention to mitigate risk through access controls and monitoring until official fixes are released.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, particularly to enterprises and government agencies relying on Windows 10 Version 1809. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to escalate privileges locally, potentially leading to full system compromise, unauthorized data access, or disruption of critical services. This is especially concerning for sectors with sensitive data or critical infrastructure, such as finance, healthcare, and public administration. The ability to elevate privileges without user interaction increases the threat level, as automated or stealthy attacks become feasible once local access is obtained. The widespread use of Windows 10 in Europe means a large attack surface, and organizations with legacy systems that have not upgraded to newer Windows versions are particularly vulnerable. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the potential for future attacks once exploit code becomes available.

1. Immediately restrict local access to systems running Windows 10 Version 1809, especially limiting accounts with any privileges that could be leveraged for exploitation. 2. Implement strict file system permissions and monitoring on directories and files used by the WLAN Service to detect unauthorized path or file manipulations. 3. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to identify and block suspicious activities related to file path control. 4. Maintain robust logging and alerting for privilege escalation attempts and unusual WLAN Service behavior. 5. Plan and prioritize upgrading affected systems to a supported and patched Windows version as soon as Microsoft releases a security update addressing this vulnerability. 6. Until patches are available, consider isolating vulnerable systems from critical networks to reduce potential impact. 7. Conduct user and administrator training to recognize signs of local compromise and enforce the principle of least privilege to minimize attack vectors.