CVE-2026-41091 HIGH

CVE-2026-41091: Microsoft Defender Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability

Vendor Microsoft
Product Microsoft Malware Protection Engine
Weakness CWE-59
KEV Status Known Exploited
Published May 20, 2026
Last update June 9, 2026
View on NVD All CVEs

CVSS base score

7.8/10
Attack vector Local
Attack complexity Low
Privileges required Low
User interaction None
Confidentiality High
Integrity High

CVSS vector

CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H/E:U/RL:O/RC:C

What the vulnerability does

01Description

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

CISA mandated remediation

02CISA 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.

Key dates

03Disclosure timeline

May 20, 2026 CVE published
June 9, 2026 Record updated