Exploited vulnerability · CISA KEV

Is CVE-2026-68820 exploited? Yes: in CISA KEV since 11 Aug 2026

Gociux · Microsoft Windows Ancillary Function Driver for WinSock · data: CISA KEV, CVE record, FIRST EPSS

Yes. CVE-2026-68820, Microsoft Windows Ancillary Function Driver for WinSock Use-After-Free Vulnerability, is being exploited in the wild. CISA added it to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on 11 Aug 2026, the day it was published. It affects Microsoft Windows Ancillary Function Driver for WinSock. If you run it, CISA's required action is: Apply mitigations in accordance with vendor instructions, ensuring compliance with CISA’s BOD 26-04 Prioritizing Security Updates Based on Risk (see URL in Notes) guidance and CISA’s “Forensics Triage Requirements” (see URL in Notes). Follow applicable BOD 26-04 guidance for cloud services or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable. Stakeholders are responsible for evaluating each asset's internet exposure and ensuring adherence to BOD 26-04 patching guidelines.

What it is

Microsoft Windows Ancillary Function Driver for WinSock contains a use-after-free vulnerability that allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.

What to do

1. Check whether you run it. Look for Windows Ancillary Function Driver for WinSock in your asset inventory, including appliances and cloud images. Stack check lists every exploited Microsoft CVE at once.
2. Apply the fix. Apply mitigations in accordance with vendor instructions, ensuring compliance with CISA’s BOD 26-04 Prioritizing Security Updates Based on Risk (see URL in Notes) guidance and CISA’s “Forensics Triage Requirements” (see URL in Notes). Follow applicable BOD 26-04 guidance for cloud services or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable. Stakeholders are responsible for evaluating each asset's internet exposure and ensuring adherence to BOD 26-04 patching guidelines.
3. If you can't patch today, take the affected service off the internet or restrict who can reach it, and check its logs for signs of compromise since 11 Aug 2026.
4. Get told next time. Email alerts when CISA adds a CVE for Microsoft.

References

• portal.msrc.microsoft.com/en-US/security-guidance/advisory/CVE-2026-68820
• nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2026-68820

Sources: CISA KEV (exploitation, ransomware use, required action, due date), the CVE record (publication date, CVSS, CNA), NVD and FIRST EPSS (live score). More: all KEV additions in August 2026 · Microsoft scorecard · act-now radar.