CVE-2026-62878

9.8

Microsoft · Windows 10 and Windows Server

A stack-based buffer overflow in the Windows DNS service enables unauthenticated remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable Windows systems.

Executive summary

A critical stack-based buffer overflow in the Windows DNS service allows unauthenticated attackers to gain remote code execution on vulnerable Windows 10 and Server platforms.

Vulnerability

This is a stack-based buffer overflow (CWE-121) within the Windows DNS service. An unauthenticated attacker can send specially crafted packets to the service to trigger the overflow and execute arbitrary code.

Business impact

The Windows DNS service is a core component of network infrastructure. A successful exploit allows for remote code execution, which could result in complete server takeover, credential theft, and unauthorized access to sensitive internal network resources. With a CVSS score of 9.8, this vulnerability is extremely severe and requires immediate attention to prevent system-wide compromise.

Remediation

Immediate Action: Apply the security patches provided by Microsoft for the respective Windows 10 and Windows Server versions to reach the fixed build levels.

Proactive Monitoring: Monitor DNS traffic for malformed packets or unexpected spikes in traffic directed at the DNS service that may indicate an attempt to trigger the buffer overflow.

Compensating Controls: Restrict access to DNS services to authorized internal clients only and utilize network-level firewalls to block unauthorized traffic directed at port 53.

Exploitation status

Public Exploit Available: Unknown.

Analyst recommendation

Given the central role of DNS services in enterprise environments, this vulnerability poses a significant threat to operational stability. Administrators must verify their current build versions against the provided fixed versions and apply the necessary security updates immediately to mitigate the risk of remote exploitation.

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