Product:
Desktop Windows Manager
Summary
Use after free in Desktop Windows Manager allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally. This vulnerability can lead to significant security risks if exploited. It is crucial for users to be aware of the potential impacts of this issue.
Details
| Severity | Base Score | CVE |
|---|---|---|
| HIGH | 7.8 | CVE-2026-20871 |
Exploitation
An attacker with local access can exploit this vulnerability by triggering a use after free condition in the Desktop Windows Manager. This can be achieved by manipulating memory management processes, allowing the attacker to gain elevated privileges on the affected system.
Affected Products
- Desktop Windows Manager: A core component of the Windows operating system responsible for managing the graphical user interface and visual effects.
Mitigation
To mitigate this vulnerability, users should ensure that their systems are updated with the latest security patches provided by Microsoft. Regularly checking for updates and applying them promptly can help protect against potential exploitation.