CVE-2025-59255CWE-122

Windows DWM Core Library Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability

High · published October 14, 2025

CVSS v3.1
7.8
EPSS
0%
Percentile
35.4
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚡ A heap-based buffer overflow in the Windows DWM Core Library allows those with access to elevate their privileges locally — it's like sneaking into the VIP section of a concert without a ticket! 🎟️ Think of the DWM Core Library as a restaurant where certain patrons have access to the kitchen. This overflow lets an authorized attacker not just enter, but take control of the kitchen, adjusting orders or even shutting down service altogether. This vulnerability is high-risk because it enables an attacker to escalate their privileges—one moment they’re a regular diner, and the next, they’re the head chef! They could install malicious software, access sensitive data, or manipulate system configurations, leading to a compromised system and serious security breaches.

Put simply

Think of the DWM Core Library as a restaurant where certain patrons have access to the kitchen. This overflow lets an authorized attacker not just enter, but take control of the kitchen, adjusting orders or even shutting down service altogether. The flaw occurs due to improper handling of memory in the heap, allowing an attacker with local access to overwrite critical memory areas and gain elevated privileges within the system.

What to do

This vulnerability is high-risk because it enables an attacker to escalate their privileges—one moment they’re a regular diner, and the next, they’re the head chef! They could install malicious software, access sensitive data, or manipulate system configurations, leading to a compromised system and serious security breaches. To mitigate this risk, ensure that your systems are updated with the latest patches from Microsoft. Regularly audit user permissions and limit access to sensitive areas of the system to only those who absolutely need it. 🛡️ You've got this! Follow these steps, and you'll be back in control in no time! 🚀

The record
Technical detail
CVSS v3.1
7.8 · HIGH
Vector
CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H/E:U/RL:O/RC:C
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.00421 · 35.4th percentile
Weakness
CWE-122 · Heap-based Buffer Overflow
Published
2025-10-14T17:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 14 OCT 17:00Z
    Windows DWM Core Library Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
    cvelistv5