CVE-2025-64658 is a race condition vulnerability categorized under CWE-362, affecting Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The vulnerability exists in the Windows Shell component, where concurrent execution of processes or threads improperly synchronizes access to shared resources. This improper synchronization allows an authorized local attacker with limited privileges to exploit the race condition to elevate their privileges on the affected system. The vulnerability requires local access and user interaction, with a high attack complexity due to the timing-sensitive nature of race conditions. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.5, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, and the scope is changed, indicating that the vulnerability affects resources beyond the initially vulnerable component. No public exploits are known at this time, and no patches have been linked yet, suggesting that mitigation is currently limited to workarounds and access controls. The vulnerability could be leveraged to gain SYSTEM-level privileges, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code, install persistent malware, or disrupt system operations. This vulnerability is particularly concerning for environments where Windows 10 Version 1809 remains in use, especially in enterprise and government sectors.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-64658 can be significant due to the widespread use of Windows 10 Version 1809 in corporate and governmental environments. Successful exploitation allows attackers to elevate privileges from a limited user account to SYSTEM level, potentially leading to full system compromise. This can result in unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of critical services, and the deployment of persistent malware or ransomware. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems are all at high risk. Given that exploitation requires local access and user interaction, insider threats or compromised endpoints pose the greatest risk vectors. Organizations with legacy systems or delayed patch cycles are particularly vulnerable. The vulnerability could also facilitate lateral movement within networks, increasing the overall risk of large-scale breaches or espionage campaigns targeting European critical infrastructure and enterprises.

1. Prioritize patching: Monitor Microsoft security advisories closely and apply official patches for Windows 10 Version 1809 as soon as they become available. 2. Restrict local user privileges: Limit the number of users with local access and enforce the principle of least privilege to reduce the attack surface. 3. Implement application whitelisting and endpoint protection: Use advanced endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to detect suspicious behavior indicative of race condition exploitation attempts. 4. Harden user interaction policies: Educate users about the risks of executing untrusted code and clicking on suspicious prompts, as user interaction is required for exploitation. 5. Monitor system logs for anomalies: Set up alerts for unusual privilege escalation attempts or race condition-related errors in Windows Shell components. 6. Consider upgrading affected systems: Where feasible, migrate from Windows 10 Version 1809 to supported, updated Windows versions with ongoing security support. 7. Employ network segmentation: Limit lateral movement opportunities by segmenting critical systems and enforcing strict access controls. 8. Use virtualization or sandboxing for risky applications to contain potential exploitation attempts.