CVE-2025-62220 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in Microsoft Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) GUI version 1.0.0. This vulnerability arises from improper handling of memory buffers in the WSL GUI component, which can be exploited remotely without requiring any privileges. An attacker can send specially crafted network packets to the vulnerable WSL GUI service, triggering the overflow and enabling arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems, as attackers can execute code remotely, potentially leading to full system compromise. The CVSS 3.1 score of 8.8 reflects the high impact and low complexity of exploitation, although user interaction is required, likely involving the user initiating a connection or opening a malicious file or link. No patches or exploits are currently publicly available, but the vulnerability has been officially published and reserved since October 2025. The WSL GUI is increasingly used in enterprise environments to run Linux applications on Windows, making this vulnerability particularly significant for organizations relying on hybrid development environments or Linux tools on Windows platforms.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of Windows and growing adoption of WSL for development and operational tasks. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized remote code execution, allowing attackers to steal sensitive data, disrupt services, or establish persistent footholds within networks. The impact extends to critical infrastructure, financial institutions, and technology companies that rely on WSL for cross-platform compatibility and development workflows. Given the network-based attack vector, organizations with exposed WSL GUI services or insufficient network segmentation are particularly vulnerable. The potential for lateral movement and privilege escalation following initial compromise could amplify the damage. Additionally, the requirement for user interaction suggests phishing or social engineering could be used to trigger the exploit, increasing the attack surface. The absence of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive defense but also underscores the urgency for patching once available.

1. Immediately restrict network exposure of WSL GUI services by implementing firewall rules and network segmentation to limit access only to trusted hosts and networks. 2. Enforce strict access controls and user permissions to minimize the risk of unauthorized interactions with WSL GUI components. 3. Educate users about the risks of interacting with untrusted network resources or files that could trigger the vulnerability. 4. Monitor network traffic and system logs for unusual activity related to WSL GUI processes, including unexpected network connections or crashes. 5. Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Prepare to apply official patches from Microsoft promptly once released, and test updates in controlled environments before widespread deployment. 7. Consider disabling WSL GUI functionality temporarily in high-risk environments until patches are available. 8. Review and update incident response plans to include scenarios involving remote code execution through WSL GUI vulnerabilities.