CVE-2026-62693 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE • 08/11/2026
Concurrent execution using shared resource with improper synchronization ('race condition') in Windows MIDI Service Module allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/11/2026
A race condition vulnerability exists in the Windows MIDI service module that enables authenticated attackers to achieve local privilege escalation through improper synchronization of shared resources during concurrent execution. This flaw resides in the operating system's multimedia subsystem where multiple threads or processes access common resources without adequate protective mechanisms, creating opportunities for malicious code execution and privilege elevation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate mutex locking or semaphore controls within the MIDI service component that handles audio processing tasks. When multiple concurrent operations attempt to modify shared data structures or system resources simultaneously, the lack of proper synchronization primitives allows race conditions to occur. This condition typically manifests when a malicious user can manipulate timing sequences to exploit the window of vulnerability between resource access and release, potentially allowing unauthorized privilege escalation from standard user level to administrative privileges.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks in enterprise environments where users may have legitimate access to systems but lack elevated privileges. Attackers can leverage this weakness by crafting specific sequences of MIDI-related operations that trigger the race condition, potentially gaining SYSTEM-level access to compromised machines. The attack vector requires local system access and authentication, making it suitable for insider threat scenarios or compromised user accounts within network perimeters.
The underlying cause aligns with common weakness enumeration CWE-362, which specifically addresses race conditions in concurrent programming where improper synchronization leads to security vulnerabilities. This vulnerability also maps to several ATT&CK techniques including privilege escalation through process injection and credential access via exploitation of system services. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that MIDI services are commonly enabled on Windows systems for multimedia applications and gaming environments.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper synchronization mechanisms such as mutexes, semaphores, or atomic operations to prevent concurrent access conflicts in shared resources. Microsoft has addressed this issue through security updates that include enhanced locking protocols within the MIDI service module. System administrators should ensure timely patch deployment and consider implementing additional monitoring for suspicious process behavior related to multimedia services. Network segmentation and least privilege principles can help limit potential exploitation scope even if such vulnerabilities are present in the system environment.