CVE-2026-50371 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE • 07/14/2026
Concurrent execution using shared resource with improper synchronization ('race condition') in Windows LUAFV allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2026
This vulnerability represents a classic race condition scenario within the Windows LUAFV (Lua File Virtualization) subsystem that enables local privilege escalation through improper synchronization of concurrent access to shared resources. The flaw exists when multiple processes or threads attempt to access the same virtualized file resource simultaneously without adequate mutual exclusion mechanisms, creating opportunities for malicious code to manipulate system state during transitional periods.
The technical implementation involves LUAFV's handling of virtualized file operations where authorized users can exploit timing gaps in resource management to gain elevated privileges. When concurrent processes access shared virtualized file handles or registry entries, the absence of proper locking mechanisms allows one process to interfere with another's operation, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with higher privileges than originally granted. This vulnerability operates at the kernel level within Windows file virtualization services and specifically targets the LUAFV component that manages Lua script execution environments.
From an operational perspective, this race condition requires an attacker to have legitimate user access to the system but does not necessitate administrative privileges initially. The exploitation process typically involves carefully timed concurrent operations that manipulate shared memory segments or file handles during the brief windows when synchronization locks are not active. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute malicious code with SYSTEM-level privileges, effectively bypassing standard user access controls and potentially enabling further lateral movement within a compromised network environment.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-362 which specifically addresses race conditions in concurrent programming where improper synchronization leads to security flaws. This weakness falls under the broader category of improper locking mechanisms that can result in privilege escalation attacks, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where multiple users share systems. The attack vector follows ATT&CK technique T1068 which describes the exploitation of vulnerabilities to elevate privileges, specifically targeting local system access and privilege escalation through operating system flaws.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper synchronization mechanisms within the LUAFV subsystem, including robust mutex locking, atomic operations for resource access, and comprehensive code review processes that identify potential race condition scenarios. Microsoft has addressed this vulnerability through security updates that correct the improper synchronization logic in file virtualization components, requiring administrators to apply patches promptly. Additional protective measures include implementing least privilege principles, monitoring for suspicious concurrent file access patterns, and maintaining up-to-date system configurations to reduce attack surface exposure. Organizations should also consider deploying runtime protection solutions that can detect anomalous concurrent access patterns indicative of race condition exploitation attempts.