CVE-2026-81963

HighActively exploited (CISA KEV)

Description

Improper link resolution before file access ('link following') in Windows Update Stack allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.

SeverityHigh
CVSS7.8
Exploit probability—
ProductMicrosoft Windows
PublishedSep 8, 2026
First seenSep 8, 2026
Added to KEVSep 8, 2026

How to fix

CISA required action

Apply mitigations in accordance with vendor instructions, ensuring compliance with CISA’s BOD 26-04 Prioritizing Security Updates Based on Risk (see URL in Notes) guidance and CISA’s “Forensics Triage Requirements” (see URL in Notes). Follow applicable BOD 26-04 guidance for cloud services or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable. Stakeholders are responsible for evaluating each asset's internet exposure and ensuring adherence to BOD 26-04 patching guidelines.

CISA due date: Sep 22, 2026
Update
  • microsoft windows_11_23h210.0.22631.7582 or later
  • microsoft windows_11_24h210.0.26100.9445 or later
  • microsoft windows_11_25h210.0.26200.9445 or later
  • microsoft windows_11_26h110.0.28000.2954 or later
  • microsoft windows_server_202510.0.26100.33438 or later

Affected products

ProductAffected versionsFixed in
microsoft windows_11_23h2v < 10.0.22631.758210.0.22631.7582
microsoft windows_11_24h2v < 10.0.26100.944510.0.26100.9445
microsoft windows_11_25h2v < 10.0.26200.944510.0.26200.9445
microsoft windows_11_26h1v < 10.0.28000.295410.0.28000.2954
microsoft windows_server_2025v < 10.0.26100.3343810.0.26100.33438

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CVE-2026-81963 · Microsoft Windows · Dark Radar