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7.8
CVE-2020-0636: Windows 10/Server 2016 WSL may grant admin rights
CVE-2020-0636 · published 6 years ago
Summary
The Windows Subsystem for Linux in Windows 10 and Windows Server 2016 can be tricked into handling files in a way that lets a regular user obtain administrator privileges. This could let an attacker take control of the system or install malicious software. Apply the latest Windows updates that address this problem and restrict WSL use to trusted personnel.
What to do
The CVE record does not list a fixed version. Check the vendor's site or the advisory links below - a fix may already be released.
Affected software
| Vendor | Product | Affected versions |
|---|---|---|
| microsoft | windows_10 |
1903 1909 cpe:2.3:o:microsoft:windows_10:1903:*:*:*:*:*:*:* |
| microsoft | windows_server_2016 |
1903 1909 cpe:2.3:o:microsoft:windows_server_2016:1903:*:*:*:*:*:*:* |
Original advisory text
An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists in the way that the Windows Subsystem for Linux handles files, aka 'Windows Subsystem for Linux Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability'.
An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists in the way that the Windows Subsystem for Linux handles files, aka 'Windows Subsystem for Linux Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability'.
References
- https://portal.msrc.microsoft.com/en-US/security-guidance/advisory/CVE-2020-0636 Patch Vendor Advisory
Internet-facing
14 days
Internal
At next upgrade
- Not known to be exploited
- Needs hands-on effort to exploit (estimated)
- Gives an attacker full control (estimated)
Timeline
Published14 Jan 2020
Updated4 Nov 2026
First seen29 Sep 2026
Sources
CVE-2020-0636 · NVD
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