CVE-2025-62213 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 affecting the Windows Ancillary Function Driver for WinSock on Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The vulnerability arises when the driver improperly manages memory, freeing an object while it is still in use, which can lead to arbitrary code execution or privilege escalation. An attacker with authorized local access and low privileges can exploit this flaw to elevate their privileges to SYSTEM level, thereby gaining full control over the affected system. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require the attacker to have local access and overcome high attack complexity, as indicated by the CVSS vector (AV:L/AC:H/PR:L/UI:N). The impact covers confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as the attacker can execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. No public exploits or patches are currently available, increasing the risk window until mitigations or updates are applied. This vulnerability is particularly critical for environments where Windows 10 Version 1809 is still in use, often due to legacy application dependencies or delayed upgrade cycles. The Ancillary Function Driver for WinSock is a core component handling network socket operations, making this vulnerability a significant threat vector for local privilege escalation attacks.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-62213 can be severe, especially in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure where Windows 10 Version 1809 remains in operation. Successful exploitation allows attackers to escalate privileges locally, potentially leading to full system compromise, data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and disruption of services. This can result in regulatory non-compliance, financial losses, reputational damage, and operational downtime. The requirement for local access limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, as insider threats or attackers gaining initial footholds via other means could leverage this vulnerability to deepen their control. The lack of available patches increases exposure time, emphasizing the need for proactive risk management. Organizations relying on legacy systems or with delayed patch management processes are particularly vulnerable. Additionally, the vulnerability could be chained with other exploits to facilitate more complex attack scenarios.

1. Restrict local access to systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 by enforcing strict access controls and monitoring user activities to reduce the risk of unauthorized privilege escalation. 2. Implement application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect and prevent suspicious activities indicative of exploitation attempts. 3. Prioritize upgrading affected systems to a supported and patched version of Windows, as Windows 10 Version 1809 is an older release with limited support. 4. Apply any security updates or patches released by Microsoft for this vulnerability immediately upon availability. 5. Conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing focused on privilege escalation vectors to identify and remediate weaknesses. 6. Educate IT staff and users about the risks of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities and the importance of maintaining updated systems. 7. Employ network segmentation to limit the spread of an attacker who gains local access to one system. 8. Monitor logs for unusual privilege escalation attempts or anomalies related to WinSock or network driver activities.