🚨 Microsoft Patch Tuesday – September 2025: What Security Leaders Need to Know
US Service Center
September 9, 2025
by Andre Leroux – CEO | Security Strategist | Risk Mitigation Advocate
Microsoft has released security updates addressing over 80 vulnerabilities across its Windows platforms. While this month’s patch bundle contains no known zero-day exploits, 13 vulnerabilities are rated “critical”, making this a high-priority cycle for enterprise security teams.
As someone focused on risk mitigation and security posture enhancement, I want to break down what’s important in this release—and what actions you should take now.
🔐 Key Vulnerabilities to Watch
1. CVE-2025-54918 – Windows NTLM Flaw
- Type: Privilege Escalation (remotely exploitable)
- Risk: “Exploitation More Likely”
- Impact: Could allow SYSTEM-level access via crafted network packets.
- Action: Audit NTLM usage and patch immediately.
2. CVE-2025-55234 – Windows SMB Client
- CVSS Score: 8.8
- Type: Replay Attack
- Impact: Allows attackers to replay authentication requests for code execution.
- Action: Prioritize patching in environments using SMB.
3. CVE-2025-54916 – NTFS Remote Code Execution
- Type: RCE via Social Engineering
- Impact: Exploitable through malicious file interaction.
- Action: Educate users and monitor file access behaviors.
📊 Trends & Takeaways
- Privilege Escalation Dominates: Nearly half of this month’s vulnerabilities fall into this category—marking a shift in attacker strategy toward post-breach exploitation.
- No Zero-Days from Microsoft: But Apple and Google patched active zero-day threats, including spyware campaigns targeting WhatsApp.
🧭 What You Should Do
- Patch Critical Vulnerabilities Immediately
- Review NTLM and SMB Usage
- Educate End Users on Social Engineering Risks
- Monitor Patch Feedback from AskWoody & SANS ISC
- Prepare for Windows 10 End-of-Life: Free updates end in two months
📞 Need Help?
If your organization needs support with patch management, vulnerability prioritization, or Windows 10 migration planning, contact US Service Center 310-421-4090. We specialize in helping organizations reduce risk and strengthen their security posture.