CVE-2025-60714 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the Object Linking and Embedding (OLE) component of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The vulnerability arises from improper handling of memory buffers in OLE, allowing an attacker to overwrite heap memory and potentially execute arbitrary code. The flaw can be exploited by an unauthorized attacker with local access to the system, requiring user interaction but no prior privileges. Successful exploitation could lead to full compromise of the affected system, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8 reflects a high severity, with attack vector local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), and user interaction required (UI:R). The scope remains unchanged (S:U), but the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). No public exploits or patches have been reported at the time of publication, indicating a window of exposure. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-122 (Heap-based Buffer Overflow), a common and dangerous class of memory corruption bugs. Given that Windows 10 Version 1809 is an older release, many organizations may still have legacy systems vulnerable to this issue. The lack of a patch link suggests that mitigation may currently rely on workarounds or system upgrades. This vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining updated Windows versions and applying security patches promptly to prevent local code execution attacks.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk especially to those still operating legacy Windows 10 Version 1809 systems. The ability for an unauthorized local attacker to execute arbitrary code can lead to full system compromise, data breaches, and disruption of critical services. Confidentiality is at risk as attackers could access sensitive information; integrity could be compromised through unauthorized code execution or system modifications; and availability could be impacted by system crashes or denial-of-service conditions. Sectors with high reliance on legacy Windows environments, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and government agencies, may face elevated risks. The requirement for local access and user interaction somewhat limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, particularly in environments with shared workstations or weak endpoint controls. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate threat but also means defenders must be proactive before exploitation attempts emerge. The vulnerability could be leveraged in multi-stage attacks, including privilege escalation following initial access. Overall, the impact on European organizations is high, necessitating urgent attention to mitigate potential damage.

European organizations should prioritize upgrading affected systems from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a supported and patched Windows version to eliminate exposure. In the absence of an official patch, organizations should implement strict local access controls to limit unauthorized user logins and reduce the risk of exploitation. Enforce the principle of least privilege to minimize user rights and restrict software installations or execution of untrusted code. Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of identifying anomalous behaviors indicative of heap corruption or code execution attempts. Educate users about the risks of interacting with untrusted content or applications that could trigger the vulnerability. Regularly audit and monitor systems for signs of compromise or exploitation attempts. Consider application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized code execution. Network segmentation can limit lateral movement if a system is compromised. Finally, maintain up-to-date backups to enable recovery in case of successful exploitation.