CVE-2026-20941
Unknown Unknown - Not Provided
Improper Link Resolution in Windows Host Process Enables Privilege Escalation

Publication date: 2026-01-13

Last updated on: 2026-01-13

Assigner: Microsoft Corporation

Description
Improper link resolution before file access ('link following') in Host Process for Windows Tasks allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.
CVSS Scores
EPSS Scores
Probability:
Percentile:
Meta Information
Published
2026-01-13
Last Modified
2026-01-13
Generated
2026-06-16
AI Q&A
2026-01-14
EPSS Evaluated
2026-06-14
NVD
CVE-2026-20941
Affected Vendors & Products
Showing 1 associated CPE
Vendor Product Version / Range
microsoft host_process_for_windows_tasks *
Helpful Resources
Exploitability
CWE
CWE Icon
KEV
KEV Icon
CWE ID Description
CWE-59 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.
Attack-Flow Graph
AI Quick Actions
Instant insights powered by AI
Executive Summary

This vulnerability involves improper link resolution before file access ('link following') in the Host Process for Windows Tasks, which allows an authorized attacker to elevate their privileges locally. [1]

Impact Analysis

An authorized attacker could exploit this vulnerability to elevate their privileges on the affected system, potentially gaining higher-level access than intended, which could lead to unauthorized actions or control. [1]

Chat Assistant
Ask questions about this CVE
Hi! I’m here to help you understand CVE-2026-20941. Ask me anything about the vulnerability, its impact, or mitigation strategies.
0/70
EPSS Chart