CyberSecBulletin
CVE-2025-60710Exploited in the wildNVD status: Analyzed

Microsoft Windows Link Following

Published Updated By the CyberSecBulletin desk

CVE-2025-60710 is a high-severity improper link resolution before file access vulnerability in Windows 11 Version 24H2 from Microsoft, with a CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.8 out of 10. It can be exploited with local access to the system by an attacker with a low-privileged account, without any action from a user. The record lists version 10.0.26100.7462 as the first without the flaw, so updating Windows 11 Version 24H2 to that release or later removes the exposure. CISA added it to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalogue on April 13, 2026, which means attacks have been observed in the wild, including in ransomware campaigns.

Patch now

Attackers are already exploiting this vulnerability, according to CISA.

What to do

  1. Update Windows 11 Version 24H2 to 10.0.26100.7462 or a later version.
  2. Update Windows 11 Version 25H2 to 10.0.26200.7462 or a later version.
  3. Update Windows Server 2025 to 10.0.26100.7462 or a later version.
  4. CISA's required action: Apply mitigations per vendor instructions, follow applicable BOD 22-01 guidance for cloud services, or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable.
  5. Read the advisory on msrc.microsoft.com for workarounds and exact fixed builds.

Affected products and versions

VendorProductAffected versionsFixed in
MicrosoftWindows 11 Version 24H210.0.26100.0 up to, but not including, 10.0.26100.746210.0.26100.7462
MicrosoftWindows 11 Version 25H210.0.26200.0 up to, but not including, 10.0.26200.746210.0.26200.7462
MicrosoftWindows Server 202510.0.26100.0 up to, but not including, 10.0.26100.746210.0.26100.7462
MicrosoftWindows Server 2025 (Server Core installation)10.0.26100.0 up to, but not including, 10.0.26100.746210.0.26100.7462
MicrosoftWindows 11 24h2before 10.0.26100.739210.0.26100.7392
MicrosoftWindows 11 25h2before 10.0.26200.739210.0.26200.7392

Version data comes from the organisation that assigned the CVE. Confirm against the vendor advisory before deciding you are unaffected.

How the severity score breaks down

Attack vector
LocalThe attacker needs local access or must trick a user into running something.
Attack complexity
LowNo special conditions are needed; the attack works reliably.
Privileges required
LowA basic user account is enough.
User interaction
NoneNo action by a victim is required.
Scope
UnchangedImpact stays within the vulnerable component.
Confidentiality
HighAll data handled by the component can be read.
Integrity
HighData or code can be modified at will.
Availability
HighThe component can be taken down completely.

Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H. Scored by CNA (microsoft.com).

Official description

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

Source: the CVE record as published by its numbering authority, via NVD and CVE.org.

The underlying weakness: Improper Link Resolution Before File Access

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.

How developers prevent this class of flaw

  • Follow the principle of least privilege when assigning access rights to entities in a software system. Denying access to a file can prevent an attacker from replacing that file with a link to a sensitive file. Ensure good compartmentalization in the system to provide protected areas that can be trusted.

More Improper Link Resolution Before File Access vulnerabilities (CWE-59)

Timeline

  1. CISA published its SSVC assessment (exploitation: active, automatable: no, technical impact: total).
  2. CVE record published.
  3. Added to CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalogue.
  4. Deadline for US federal agencies to remediate, set by CISA.
  5. Record last changed materially (score, affected products, status or references).

References

Recent Improper Link Resolution Before File Access vulnerabilities

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