In CodeMeter Runtime from version 8.40 to (excluding) 8.41a and 9.00 to (excluding) 9.10, cmu.exe –create-io –file C: creates a predictable temporary file under C:\CM-Stick. The directory and
file paths are not properly checked for NTFS reparse points, such as junctions or symbolic links, before file
operations are performed. A local attacker can create a junction at the temporary file that points to an arbitrary
system path. Because CodeMeter Runtime runs with System privileges, this could allow arbitrary files to be deleted
with System privileges and potentially enable local privilege escalation.
HIGH
Vulnerability intelligence
CVE-2026-81572
CVSS 3.17.8
SeverityHigh
Known exploitedNo
NVD references:
Primary source: NIST National Vulnerability Database