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
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
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Meta Information
Affected Vendors & Products
| Vendor | Product | Version / Range |
|---|---|---|
| microsoft | host_process_for_windows_tasks | * |
Helpful Resources
Exploitability
CWE
KEV
| 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 Powered Q&A
Can you explain this vulnerability to me?
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]
How can this vulnerability impact me? :
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]
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