Sep 2026: Windows Update Stack Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
CVE-2026-81963 Published on September 8, 2026
Windows Update Stack Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
Improper link resolution before file access ('link following') in Windows Update Stack allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.
Known Exploited Vulnerability
This Microsoft Windows Link Following Vulnerability is part of CISA's list of Known Exploited Vulnerabilities. Microsoft Windows Update Stack contains a link following vulnerability that allows a local attacker to escalate privileges locally up to SYSTEM.
The following remediation steps are recommended / required by September 22, 2026: Apply mitigations in accordance with vendor instructions, ensuring compliance with CISA’s BOD 26-04 Prioritizing Security Updates Based on Risk (see URL in Notes) guidance and CISA’s “Forensics Triage Requirements” (see URL in Notes). Follow applicab
Weakness Types
What is an insecure temporary file Vulnerability?
The software attempts to access a file based on the filename, but it does not properly prevent that filename from identifying a link or shortcut that resolves to an unintended resource.
CVE-2026-81963 has been classified to as an insecure temporary file vulnerability or weakness.
What is an Authorization Vulnerability?
The software does not restrict or incorrectly restricts access to a resource from an unauthorized actor.
CVE-2026-81963 has been classified to as an Authorization vulnerability or weakness.
Products Associated with CVE-2026-81963
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Affected Versions
Microsoft Windows 11 version 23H2:- Version 10.0.22631.0 and below 10.0.22631.7582 is affected.
- Version 10.0.22631.0 and below 10.0.22631.7582 is affected.
- Version 10.0.26100.0 and below 10.0.26100.9445 is affected.
- Version 10.0.26200.0 and below 10.0.26200.9445 is affected.
- Version 10.0.28000.0 and below 10.0.28000.2954 is affected.
- Version 10.0.26100.0 and below 10.0.26100.33438 is affected.
- Version 10.0.26100.0 and below 10.0.26100.33438 is affected.