CVE-2025-64680 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the Windows Desktop Window Manager (DWM) Core Library component of Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1809 (build 10.0.17763.0). The vulnerability arises from improper handling of heap memory, which can be exploited by an authorized local attacker to execute a buffer overflow attack. This overflow can corrupt memory, allowing the attacker to escalate privileges from a limited user context to SYSTEM-level privileges, thereby gaining full control over the affected system. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require the attacker to have some level of local access (local privilege). The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating a high severity level, with the vector indicating low attack complexity, low privileges required, no user interaction, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. No known public exploits or active exploitation in the wild have been reported as of the publication date. The vulnerability is particularly concerning for environments where Windows 10 Version 1809 remains in use, especially in legacy or industrial systems that may not have been updated to newer Windows versions. The lack of an available patch at the time of reporting necessitates immediate risk mitigation through access controls and monitoring. This vulnerability falls under CWE-122 (Heap-based Buffer Overflow), a common and dangerous class of memory corruption bugs that can lead to arbitrary code execution and system compromise.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-64680 can be significant, especially in sectors relying on legacy Windows 10 Version 1809 deployments such as manufacturing, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. Successful exploitation allows attackers to elevate privileges locally, potentially leading to full system compromise, data breaches, disruption of services, and lateral movement within networks. Confidentiality is at risk as attackers can access sensitive data; integrity is compromised as attackers can alter system files or configurations; availability can be affected if attackers disrupt system operations or deploy ransomware. The local attack vector means that insider threats or attackers who gain initial footholds through other means (e.g., phishing) can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and deepen their access. European organizations with strict data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR) face additional compliance risks if this vulnerability leads to data exposure. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers often develop exploits rapidly after disclosure. The impact is heightened in environments where patching is delayed or where endpoint protection solutions do not detect exploitation attempts.

1. Restrict local user permissions to the minimum necessary, ensuring that only trusted users have local access to systems running Windows 10 Version 1809. 2. Implement application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior indicative of privilege escalation attempts. 3. Monitor system logs and security events for unusual activity related to the DWM Core Library or unexpected privilege escalations. 4. Isolate legacy systems running Windows 10 Version 1809 from critical network segments to limit potential lateral movement. 5. Prepare for patch deployment by inventorying affected systems and testing updates in controlled environments once Microsoft releases a security update. 6. Employ multi-factor authentication and strong access controls to reduce the risk of initial local access by unauthorized users. 7. Educate users and administrators about the risks of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities and the importance of timely patching. 8. Consider upgrading affected systems to supported Windows versions with active security updates to reduce exposure to this and other vulnerabilities.