Heap-based Buffer Overflow in Windows NTFS by Microsoft

CVE-2026-20922

What is CVE-2026-20922?

CVE-2026-20922 is a notable vulnerability found in the Windows NTFS file system managed by Microsoft. This vulnerability manifests as a heap-based buffer overflow, which occurs when the software writes more data to a buffer than it can hold, thus overwriting adjacent memory. This flaw allows an authorized attacker to execute arbitrary code locally on affected systems. As a result, organizations leveraging NTFS for file storage and management may be at risk, as successful exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access and control over critical system functionalities, potentially resulting in significant operational disruptions and data integrity issues.

Potential Impact of CVE-2026-20922

1. Unauthorized Code Execution: The most immediate and severe risk associated with CVE-2026-20922 is the potential for an attacker to execute arbitrary code on a system. This could allow malicious actors to gain elevated privileges, compromising sensitive information and altering system configurations.

2. Data Integrity Risks: Exploiting this vulnerability could lead to data corruption or loss, as attackers might manipulate or destroy critical data. This can affect the reliability of data-driven decision-making within organizations and lead to regulatory compliance issues.

3. Operational Disruption: If an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they may disrupt normal operations by shutting down services or tampering with essential applications. This could result in significant downtime, financial losses, and damage to an organization's reputation.

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