CVE-2025-59515 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 that exists in the Windows Broadcast DVR User Service component of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). This vulnerability allows an attacker who already has low-level local privileges to exploit the improper handling of memory in the service, leading to a use-after-free condition. Exploiting this flaw enables the attacker to elevate their privileges on the affected system, potentially gaining SYSTEM-level access. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require the attacker to have some level of local access, which could be through a compromised account or physical access. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.0, reflecting high severity due to the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, although the attack complexity is high and privileges are required. No public exploits or active exploitation in the wild have been reported as of the publication date. The vulnerability is significant because the Broadcast DVR User Service is a core Windows component related to game and multimedia recording features, which may be enabled by default on many systems. The lack of available patches at the time of reporting means that affected systems remain vulnerable until updates are released and applied.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-59515 can be substantial, particularly in environments where Windows 10 Version 1809 is still in use, such as legacy systems in government, healthcare, finance, and critical infrastructure sectors. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to escalate privileges from a low-privileged user to SYSTEM, enabling full control over affected machines. This can lead to data breaches, disruption of services, and the deployment of further malware or ransomware. The confidentiality of sensitive data could be compromised, integrity of systems undermined, and availability of critical services disrupted. Since the vulnerability requires local access, insider threats or attackers who have gained initial footholds through phishing or other means could leverage this flaw to deepen their control. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers often develop exploits after public disclosure. Organizations with compliance obligations under GDPR and other regulations must consider the risk of data exposure and operational impact.

1. Apply security patches promptly once Microsoft releases updates addressing CVE-2025-59515. Monitor official Microsoft security advisories for patch availability. 2. Restrict access to systems running Windows 10 Version 1809, especially limiting local user accounts with low privileges that could be leveraged for exploitation. 3. Disable or restrict the Windows Broadcast DVR User Service where feasible, particularly on systems not requiring game or multimedia recording features. 4. Implement application control and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious local privilege escalation activities. 5. Enforce the principle of least privilege to minimize the number of users with local access rights. 6. Conduct regular audits of user accounts and permissions to detect and remove unnecessary privileges. 7. Educate users about the risks of local account compromise and encourage strong authentication practices. 8. Consider upgrading affected systems to a supported Windows version with ongoing security updates to reduce exposure to legacy vulnerabilities.