CVE-2025-62573 is a use-after-free vulnerability identified in the DirectX component of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). Use-after-free (CWE-416) vulnerabilities occur when a program continues to use a pointer after the memory it points to has been freed, leading to undefined behavior including memory corruption. In this case, an authorized attacker with local access and low privileges can exploit this flaw to elevate their privileges on the system. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but has a high attack complexity, meaning exploitation demands specific conditions or expertise. Successful exploitation can compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.0 (high), reflecting the significant impact but limited attack vector (local only) and the requirement for existing privileges. No public exploits or patches are currently available, indicating the vulnerability is newly disclosed and may be targeted in the future. The affected product is Windows 10 Version 1809, a legacy operating system version that is still in use in some environments, particularly where upgrade cycles are slow or constrained by compatibility requirements. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-416 (use after free) and also tagged with CWE-362, which relates to race conditions, suggesting a complex memory management flaw. This vulnerability is critical for organizations relying on legacy Windows 10 systems, especially those with multiple local users or where local access controls are weak.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-62573 can be significant, particularly in sectors where legacy Windows 10 1809 systems remain operational, such as manufacturing, government, and critical infrastructure. An attacker with local access could leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, potentially gaining administrative control over affected machines. This could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of services, and deployment of further malware or ransomware. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems are all at risk. Given the local attack vector, insider threats or attackers who have gained initial footholds through other means (e.g., phishing) could exploit this vulnerability to deepen their access. The lack of patches increases the window of exposure, and organizations with slow patch management or legacy system dependencies face heightened risk. The vulnerability could also be leveraged in targeted attacks against European enterprises with high-value assets, amplifying the potential damage.

1. Immediately restrict local access to Windows 10 Version 1809 systems, enforcing strict access controls and monitoring for suspicious local activity. 2. Implement application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect and block exploitation attempts. 3. Prioritize upgrading affected systems to supported Windows versions with active security updates to eliminate exposure to this vulnerability. 4. Until patches are available, consider isolating legacy systems from critical networks and sensitive data environments to limit potential impact. 5. Conduct thorough audits of user privileges and remove unnecessary local accounts or reduce privileges where possible. 6. Monitor system logs and security alerts for signs of privilege escalation or anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 7. Prepare for rapid deployment of patches once Microsoft releases them, including testing in controlled environments to avoid operational disruptions. 8. Educate IT staff and users about the risks of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities and the importance of maintaining secure local access policies.