CVE-2025-59516 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-306 (Missing Authentication for Critical Function) found in the Windows Storage VSP (Virtual Storage Provider) Driver of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). This flaw arises because the driver fails to enforce proper authentication checks on a critical function, enabling an attacker who already has some level of local access privileges to escalate their privileges further. The vulnerability does not require user interaction, making it more straightforward to exploit once local access is obtained. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8 reflects a high severity due to the combination of local attack vector, low attack complexity, required privileges, and the potential for full confidentiality, integrity, and availability compromise. Although no public exploits are known at this time, the absence of patches increases the risk window. The vulnerability could be leveraged to gain SYSTEM-level privileges, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code, disable security controls, or access sensitive data. The affected Windows 10 Version 1809 is an older release, but still widely used in enterprise environments, particularly where legacy applications or hardware compatibility is required. The technical root cause is the lack of authentication enforcement in the driver’s critical function, violating secure coding principles and enabling privilege escalation.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk especially in sectors relying on legacy Windows 10 Version 1809 systems, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and government agencies. Successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise, data breaches, disruption of services, and potential lateral movement within networks. The elevated privileges can allow attackers to disable security tools, install persistent malware, or exfiltrate sensitive information. Given the local access requirement, insider threats or attackers who have already breached perimeter defenses could leverage this vulnerability to deepen their foothold. The lack of patches increases exposure time, and organizations with slow update cycles or strict change management policies may remain vulnerable longer. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, potentially affecting critical infrastructure and sensitive data processing within European enterprises.

Until an official patch is released, European organizations should implement strict local access controls, ensuring that only trusted users have local login capabilities on Windows 10 Version 1809 systems. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor and block suspicious privilege escalation attempts. Regularly audit user privileges and remove unnecessary local administrator rights. Network segmentation can limit the spread of an attacker who gains elevated privileges. Employ strong physical security controls to prevent unauthorized local access. Prepare for rapid deployment of patches once available by maintaining an up-to-date inventory of affected systems. Consider upgrading affected systems to newer, supported Windows versions where this vulnerability is not present. Additionally, implement robust logging and alerting to detect anomalous activities related to privilege escalation attempts in the Windows Storage VSP Driver context.