CVE-2026-81963
HIGHCVSS 7.8/10Actively Exploited
Last modified
CVE-2026-81963 is a high-severity vulnerability rated 7.8/10 on the CVSS scale. Improper link resolution before file access ('link following') in Windows Update Stack allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.. CISA has confirmed active exploitation in the wild.
Description
Improper link resolution before file access ('link following') in Windows Update Stack allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.
Metrics
Exploitation Status
This vulnerability is listed in CISA’s Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. Federal agencies must remediate by .
Weakness Enumeration
Affected Software
| Vendor | Product | Versions |
|---|---|---|
| Microsoft | Windows 11 23h2 | < 10.0.22631.7582 |
| Microsoft | Windows 11 24h2 | < 10.0.26100.9445 |
| Microsoft | Windows 11 25h2 | < 10.0.26200.9445 |
| Microsoft | Windows 11 26h1 | < 10.0.28000.2954 |
| Microsoft | Windows Server 2025 | < 10.0.26100.33438 |
References
- https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2026-81963Patch, Vendor Advisory
- https://www.cisa.gov/known-exploited-vulnerabilities-catalog?field_cve=CVE-2026-81963US Government Resource
Timeline
- Published
- Last Modified
- Status
- Analyzed
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CVE-2026-81963?
Improper link resolution before file access ('link following') in Windows Update Stack allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.
How severe is CVE-2026-81963?
CVE-2026-81963 has a CVSS score of 7.8/10 (HIGH severity). This vulnerability is listed in CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog.
How do I fix CVE-2026-81963?
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.
How Strix Helps
- Uncovering a hidden BOLA in Appsmith's snapshot logicStrix autonomously discovered a BOLA/IDOR vulnerability in Appsmith's snapshot deletion path.
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Are you affected by CVE-2026-81963?
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