Microsoft Defender Link Following Vulnerability
Description
Microsoft Defender contains a link following vulnerability that allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.
What to do
Apply mitigations per vendor instructions, follow applicable BOD 22-01 guidance for cloud services, or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable.
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Details
- Vendor
- Microsoft
- Product
- Microsoft Defender
- CVE
- CVE-2026-41091
- Affected versions
- Microsoft Malware Protection Engine 1.1: from 1.1.0.0 to 1.1.26040.8 (excluded) — fixed in 1.1.26040.8 (from the advisory and NVD; check the exact builds in the official advisory)
- CVSS score
- 7.8
- Actively exploited
- Yes, listed in the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog
- CISA due date
- June 3, 2026 (deadline for US federal agencies: a good benchmark for you too)
- Source
- CISA KEV – original advisory
- Published
- May 20, 2026
The description and the recommended action are quoted from the public advisory; severity, exploitation status and affected versions are compiled automatically from public sources and may contain errors. The vendor's original advisory prevails: check it before taking action. This information is provided without warranty and does not replace a professional assessment.