PT-2026-42157 · Microsoft · Defender
Acd421
+3
·
Published
2026-05-19
·
Updated
2026-06-10
·
CVE-2026-41091
CVSS v3.1
7.8
High
| Vector | AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H |
Name of the Vulnerable Software and Affected Versions
Microsoft Defender (affected versions not specified)
Description
Improper link resolution before file access, also known as link following, in the Microsoft Malware Protection Engine allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally to SYSTEM level. Additionally, the Microsoft Defender Antimalware Platform is subject to uncontrolled resource consumption, which could allow an attacker to cause a denial of service. This issue was actively exploited in real-world incidents before patches were released.
Recommendations
Update Microsoft Defender immediately.
Keep Windows fully patched.
Enable multi-factor authentication and the principle of least privilege.
Monitor for suspicious privilege escalation activity.
Exploit
Fix
DoS
LPE
Resource Exhaustion
Link Following
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Related Identifiers
Affected Products
Defender