(Pwn2Own) Microsoft Windows 11 vhdmp Use-After-Free Local Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
Vulnerability Details
This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Microsoft Windows. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target system in order to exploit this vulnerability.
The specific flaw exists within the Virtual Hard Disk Miniport driver. The issue results from the lack of validating the existence of an object prior to performing operations on the object. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code in the context of SYSTEM.
Additional Details
Microsoft has issued an update to correct this vulnerability. More details can be found at:
https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2025-50167
Disclosure Timeline
- 2025-05-23 - Vulnerability reported to vendor
- 2025-08-14 - Coordinated public release of advisory
- 2025-08-14 - Advisory Updated
Credit
Chen Le Qi of STAR Labs SG Pte. Ltd.
