CVE-2025-62215 is a race condition vulnerability classified under CWE-362, affecting the Windows Kernel in Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The vulnerability stems from improper synchronization when multiple threads or processes concurrently access shared kernel resources, leading to a race condition. This flaw allows an authorized local attacker to exploit timing discrepancies to elevate their privileges beyond their assigned level. The attack vector requires local access with low privileges but demands high attack complexity, as the attacker must precisely trigger the race condition without user interaction. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability by potentially allowing arbitrary code execution at elevated privileges, kernel-level manipulation, or system compromise. No patches are currently available, and no known exploits have been observed in the wild. The vulnerability was reserved in early October 2025 and published in November 2025, indicating recent discovery. The CVSS v3.1 score is 7.0 (high), reflecting the significant impact but limited attack vector scope. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for organizations still running Windows 10 Version 1809, which, despite being an older release, remains in use in some environments due to legacy application dependencies or delayed upgrade cycles. The race condition nature means that exploitation may be non-deterministic and require precise timing, increasing complexity but not eliminating risk. Attackers with local access, such as through compromised user accounts or insider threats, could leverage this flaw to gain system-level privileges, potentially leading to full system compromise or lateral movement within networks.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-62215 can be significant, especially in sectors where Windows 10 Version 1809 remains deployed, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and government agencies with legacy systems. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized privilege escalation, allowing attackers to bypass security controls, access sensitive data, manipulate system configurations, or deploy persistent malware. This undermines confidentiality, integrity, and availability of critical systems. The local attack vector limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, as attackers could gain initial footholds through phishing or insider actions. The high complexity required for exploitation may reduce widespread attacks but targeted attacks against high-value assets remain a concern. Additionally, the lack of patches at the time of disclosure increases exposure until mitigations or updates are applied. European organizations with strict regulatory requirements (e.g., GDPR) face compliance risks if breaches occur due to this vulnerability. The potential for kernel-level compromise also threatens critical infrastructure and industrial control systems that rely on Windows 10 1809, amplifying operational risks.

1. Prioritize upgrading affected systems from Windows 10 Version 1809 to a supported, patched Windows version to eliminate exposure. 2. Until patches are available, restrict local access by enforcing strict user account controls, limiting administrative privileges, and employing least privilege principles. 3. Implement application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for unusual kernel-level activity indicative of exploitation attempts. 4. Harden systems by disabling unnecessary local accounts and services that could be leveraged for local access. 5. Conduct regular audits of user privileges and access logs to detect potential misuse or suspicious behavior. 6. Educate users and administrators about the risks of local privilege escalation and the importance of reporting anomalies. 7. Prepare incident response plans specific to kernel-level compromises to enable rapid containment and recovery. 8. Monitor Microsoft security advisories closely for patch releases and apply updates promptly once available. 9. Use virtualization-based security features and kernel protection mechanisms where supported to reduce attack surface. 10. For critical environments, consider network segmentation to limit lateral movement if local compromise occurs.