Microsoft Win32k Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
Microsoft · Win32k
CVSS 7.8
EPSS 56%
2 public exploits
ransomware
Fix deadline passed 24 March 2022
What it is
An unspecified vulnerability exists in the Win32k.sys kernel-mode driver in Microsoft Windows Server that allows a local attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.
Why we say that
- Linked by CISA to known ransomware campaigns
- EPSS puts exploitation in the next 30 days at 56%
- 2 public exploits published
- CISA's federal remediation deadline (2022-03-24) has passed
- Listed in the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalogue
Every line above comes from a named public source. Where the evidence is thin, we say so rather than inventing confidence — see methodology.
What to do
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Public exploit code
Indexed from Exploit-DB. Presence of code raises urgency; absence does not mean safety.
What it costs when this goes wrong
This is where UK enforcement meets the vulnerability record. This vulnerability is used in ransomware campaigns; here is what ransomware has cost UK organisations at the regulator.
- Advanced Computer Software Group Limited The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has fined Advanced Computer Software Group Ltd (Advanced) £3.07m for security failings…
- Optionis Group Limited The data controller suffered a ransomware attack, which resulted in the exfiltration of personal data. A reprimand was issued in r…