CVE-2026-57973

Analyzed Analyzed - Analysis Complete

Windows Subsystem for Linux TOCTOU Race Condition

Publication date: 2026-07-14

Last updated on: 2026-07-20

Assigner: Microsoft Corporation

Description

Time-of-check time-of-use (toctou) race condition in Windows Subsystem for Linux allows an authorized attacker to perform tampering locally.

CVSS Scores

EPSS Scores

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Meta Information

Published

2026-07-14

Last Modified

2026-07-20

Generated

2026-08-04

AI Q&A

2026-07-15

EPSS Evaluated

2026-08-02

NVD

CVE-2026-57973

EUVD

EUVD-2026-44280

Affected Vendors & Products

Vendor	Product	Version / Range
microsoft	windows_subsystem_for_linux	to 2.7.10 (exc)

Helpful Resources

Exploitability

CWE

KEV

CWE ID	Description
CWE-367	The product checks the state of a resource before using that resource, but the resource's state can change between the check and the use in a way that invalidates the results of the check.

Attack-Flow Graph

Executive Summary

This is a time-of-check time-of-use (TOCTOU) race condition in Windows Subsystem for Linux. It allows an authorized attacker to tamper with system files or processes by exploiting a timing gap between checking and using a resource.

Impact Analysis

An attacker could modify critical files or settings, leading to system instability, unauthorized access, or data corruption. Since it requires local authorization, physical or remote access to the system is needed.

Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could lead to unauthorized data tampering or access, violating integrity and confidentiality requirements in GDPR and HIPAA. Organizations may face compliance violations if exploited.

Mitigation Strategies

Apply the latest security updates from Microsoft for Windows Subsystem for Linux to patch the TOCTOU race condition. Monitor Microsoft's update guide for specific patches and install them promptly.

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