7.8
Advisory Published
CVE Published
Updated
Advisory Published

CVE-2021-26431: Microsoft Windows Lock Screen Improper Access Control Authentication Bypass Vulnerability

First published: Tue Aug 10 2021(Updated: )

Windows Recovery Environment Agent Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability

Credit: secure@microsoft.com

Affected SoftwareAffected VersionHow to fix
Microsoft Windows Server=20H2
Microsoft Windows Server=2004
Windows 10=20H2
Windows 10=20H2
Windows 10=20H2
Windows 10=21H1
Windows 10=21H1
Windows 10=21H1
Windows 10=2004
Windows 10=2004
Windows 10=2004
Windows 10=20h2
Windows 10=21h1
Windows 10=2004
Microsoft Windows Server 2016=20h2
Microsoft Windows Server 2016=2004
Microsoft Windows Operating System

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the severity of CVE-2021-26431?

    CVE-2021-26431 is classified as a medium severity vulnerability that allows an elevation of privilege in the Windows Recovery Environment.

  • How do I fix CVE-2021-26431?

    To fix CVE-2021-26431, install the latest security updates provided by Microsoft for affected Windows versions.

  • Which versions of Windows are affected by CVE-2021-26431?

    CVE-2021-26431 affects Windows 10 and Windows Server versions 2004, 20H2, and 21H1.

  • Can CVE-2021-26431 be exploited remotely?

    CVE-2021-26431 cannot be exploited remotely; an attacker must have physical access to the affected system.

  • What are the potential impacts of CVE-2021-26431?

    Exploitation of CVE-2021-26431 could allow an attacker to gain elevated privileges and execute arbitrary code with higher permissions.

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