CVE-2026-41091

Name: CVE-2026-41091
Creator: NVD / NIST
Published: 2026-05-20T13:16:29.173+00:00
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/

HIGHCVSS 7.8/10Actively ExploitedEPSS 8.37%

Last modified Jun 17, 2026

CVE-2026-41091 is a high-severity vulnerability rated 7.8/10 on the CVSS scale. Improper link resolution before file access ('link following') in Microsoft Defender allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.. CISA has confirmed active exploitation in the wild. EPSS estimates a 8.37% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days.

Description

Improper link resolution before file access ('link following') in Microsoft Defender allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.

Metrics

CVSS 3.1

7.8/10

CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

EPSS Probability

8.37%

94.3th percentile

Probability of exploitation in the next 30 days. Learn more

Exploitation Status

This vulnerability is listed in CISA’s Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. Federal agencies must remediate by Jun 3, 2026.

Weakness Enumeration

CWE-59

Affected Software

Vendor	Product	Versions
Microsoft	Malware Protection Engine	>= 1.1.26030.3008, < 1.1.26040.8

References

https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2026-41091Vendor Advisory
https://www.cisa.gov/known-exploited-vulnerabilities-catalog?field_cve=CVE-2026-41091Third Party Advisory, US Government Resource

Timeline

Published: May 20, 2026
Last Modified: Jun 17, 2026
Status: Analyzed

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CVE-2026-41091?

Improper link resolution before file access ('link following') in Microsoft Defender allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.

How severe is CVE-2026-41091?

CVE-2026-41091 has a CVSS score of 7.8/10 (HIGH severity). The EPSS model estimates a 8.37% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days. This vulnerability is listed in CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog.

How do I fix CVE-2026-41091?

Check the vendor references and advisories linked above for patched versions and mitigation guidance. You can also run a Strix scan to test if your systems are affected.

Are you affected by CVE-2026-41091?

Run a free Strix scan to check your systems for this vulnerability.

Scan your code now

Source: NVD / NIST