CVE-2026-50390 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE • 07/14/2026
Access of resource using incompatible type ('type confusion') in Windows Kernel allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/15/2026
This vulnerability represents a classic type confusion flaw within the windows kernel that occurs when an attacker manipulates memory operations to exploit improper type handling during resource access. The issue stems from inadequate type validation mechanisms that allow conflicting data types to be processed together, creating opportunities for unauthorized privilege escalation. When legitimate system components interact with memory resources using incompatible data types, the kernel's type checking mechanisms fail to properly validate the operations, potentially allowing malicious code to manipulate memory contents and execute arbitrary instructions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves scenarios where kernel-mode drivers or system components perform operations on memory objects without proper type verification before processing. This creates a condition where an attacker can craft specific inputs that cause the kernel to interpret data as different types than originally intended, leading to memory corruption and potential code execution. The flaw typically manifests when kernel functions handle user-supplied data structures that are not properly validated against expected types, allowing attackers to manipulate object layouts and overwrite critical system data. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the kernel level where all system protections are bypassed.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability enables local privilege escalation attacks that can be exploited by authenticated users with standard accounts. The impact extends beyond simple privilege elevation as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to gain administrative privileges and execute arbitrary code with kernel-level permissions. Attackers typically leverage this vulnerability through carefully crafted memory operations that trigger the type confusion condition, often combined with other exploitation techniques such as information disclosure or memory corruption methods. The attack surface includes various kernel components that handle resource management, object allocation, and memory operations.
The vulnerability aligns with common weakness enumeration cwe-415 and cwe-416, representing type confusion patterns that lead to memory safety issues in kernel-mode code. It also maps to attack technique t1068 within the attack framework, specifically targeting local privilege escalation through system-level vulnerabilities. Mitigation strategies include implementing robust input validation mechanisms, enhancing kernel memory protection features, and applying regular security updates from microsoft. Organizations should deploy kernel-mode exploit prevention technologies, enable address space layout randomization, and maintain strict access controls to limit potential exploitation. Additionally, comprehensive monitoring and anomaly detection systems can help identify suspicious kernel operations that may indicate attempted exploitation of this vulnerability.