CVE-2025-62464 is a buffer over-read vulnerability classified under CWE-126 affecting the Windows Projected File System (ProjFS) in Microsoft Windows 11 Version 25H2 (build 10.0.26200.0). The flaw arises due to improper validation of memory boundaries when handling projected file system operations, allowing an attacker with authorized local access to read beyond allocated buffers. This memory mismanagement can lead to disclosure of sensitive information or memory corruption, which can be leveraged to escalate privileges on the affected system. The vulnerability does not require user interaction and has a low attack complexity, but it does require the attacker to have some level of local privileges already. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. No public exploits or patches are currently available, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and considered critical for affected systems. The Projected File System is used to virtualize file system data, and exploitation could allow attackers to bypass security boundaries and gain elevated rights, potentially compromising the entire system.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk as it enables local attackers to escalate privileges and potentially gain full control over affected Windows 11 25H2 systems. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of critical services, and compromise of system integrity and availability. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure are particularly vulnerable due to the high reliance on Windows 11 environments and the potential impact of system compromise. The vulnerability could be exploited by insiders or attackers who have gained limited local access through other means, making lateral movement and privilege escalation easier within corporate networks. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the high severity score indicates that exploitation could have severe consequences.

1. Apply security patches immediately once Microsoft releases an update addressing CVE-2025-62464. 2. Until patches are available, restrict local user permissions to the minimum necessary, especially limiting access to systems running Windows 11 Version 25H2. 3. Implement strict access controls and monitoring on endpoints to detect unusual local privilege escalation attempts. 4. Use application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to identify and block suspicious activities related to the Projected File System. 5. Conduct regular audits of user privileges and remove unnecessary local administrative rights. 6. Educate IT staff and users about the risks of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities and the importance of reporting suspicious behavior. 7. Segment networks to limit lateral movement opportunities if an attacker gains local access. 8. Monitor Windows event logs for anomalies related to file system operations and privilege changes.