CVE-2026-20941

Published: Jan 13, 2026Modified: Jan 16, 2026

7.8

Vector

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

Exploitability: 1.8 / Impact: 5.9

Source: secure@microsoft.com

Description

Improper link resolution before file access ('link following') in Host Process for Windows Tasks allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.

Affected (5)

Products: Microsoft: Windows 11 24h2, Windows 11 25h2, Windows Server 2025

3 products

Configuration A

5 vulnerable

Vulnerable Software	Affected Versions
Microsoft Windows 11 24h2	Before 10.0.26100.7623
Microsoft Windows 11 24h2	Before 10.0.26100.7623
Microsoft Windows 11 25h2	Before 10.0.26200.7623
Microsoft Windows 11 25h2	Before 10.0.26200.7623
Microsoft Windows Server 2025	Before 10.0.26100.32230

Related CWEs

CWE-59

Improper Link Resolution Before File Access ('Link Following')

The product 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.

References (1)

https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2026-20941

Source: secure@microsoft.com

Vendor Advisory

Timeline

No history available yet.