CVE-2026-21517
Undergoing Analysis Undergoing Analysis - In Progress

Improper Link Resolution in Windows App for Mac Elevates Privileges

Publication date: 2026-02-10

Last updated on: 2026-02-25

Assigner: Microsoft Corporation

Description
Improper link resolution before file access ('link following') in Windows App for Mac allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.

CVSS Scores

EPSS Scores

Probability:
Percentile:

Meta Information

Published
2026-02-10
Last Modified
2026-02-25
Generated
2026-07-06
AI Q&A
2026-02-10
EPSS Evaluated
2026-07-05
NVD
CVE-2026-21517
EUVD
EUVD-2026-7308

Affected Vendors & Products

Showing 1 associated CPE
Vendor Product Version / Range
microsoft windows_app to 11.3.2 (exc)

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, also known as 'link following', in the Windows App for Mac. It allows an authorized attacker to elevate their privileges locally by exploiting how the application resolves links before accessing files.

Impact Analysis

An attacker who is already authorized on the system can exploit this vulnerability to gain higher privileges than they are supposed to have. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, modification of system files, or disruption of system operations.

Compliance Impact

I don't know

Detection Guidance

I don't know

Mitigation Strategies

I don't know

Chat Assistant

Ask questions about this CVE
Hi! I’m here to help you understand CVE-2026-21517. Ask me anything about the vulnerability, its impact, or mitigation strategies.
0/70

EPSS Chart