Full Report
Microsoft says some Windows users might be unable to log into their accounts via Windows Hello after installing the April 2025 security updates. [...]
Analysis Summary
# Vulnerability: Windows Hello Breakage After April 2025 Updates
## CVE Details
- CVE ID: N/A (This is a known issue/regression reported post-patch, not a specific CVE-tracked vulnerability at the time of the report.)
- CVSS Score: N/A
- CWE: N/A (This is a functional regression caused by an update, not a traditional software flaw.)
## Affected Systems
- Products: Microsoft Windows (Specific versions impacted by the April 2025 updates, likely including Windows 10 and Windows 11 variants).
- Versions: Systems that have installed the Microsoft April 2025 updates.
- Configurations: All configurations utilizing Windows Hello PIN or Facial Recognition sign-in methods.
## Vulnerability Description
Microsoft's April 2025 cumulative updates introduced a regression affecting the Windows Hello functionality on some PCs. This causes users to experience issues signing in using their biometric data or PIN. Users may see error messages such as: "Something happened and your PIN isn't available. Click to set up your PIN again" or "Sorry something went wrong with face setup."
*Note: The report also mentions unrelated issues such as KB5055523 authentication fixes and upgrade blocks for Windows 11 24H2 due to driver/software incompatibilities (e.g., SenseShield Technology's sprotect.sys, Dirac audio, Easy Anti-Cheat, Safe Exam Browser). These are noted for context but are separate from the primary Windows Hello regression.*
## Exploitation
- Status: Not applicable (This is a system malfunction/regression caused by an update, not a security exploit.)
- Complexity: N/A
- Attack Vector: N/A
## Impact
- Confidentiality: None (Functionality disruption)
- Integrity: Low (Users cannot use their configured strong authentication methods)
- Availability: Medium (Sign-in process is impaired, requiring fallback to alternative credentials)
## Remediation
### Patches
- No specific patch to resolve the Windows Hello regression is listed as immediately available in this report, only workarounds.
### Workarounds
1. **PIN Re-enrollment:** To log in using PIN, follow the **Set my PIN** prompt displayed on the logon screen to re-enroll into Windows Hello.
2. **Face Logon Re-enrollment:** Re-enroll in Windows Hello **Facial Recognition** by navigating to **Settings** > **Accounts** > **Sign-in options** > **Facial recognition (Windows Hello)** and selecting **Set up**. Follow the on-screen instructions.
## Detection
- Users observe specific error messages upon login related to PIN availability or facial setup errors.
- Windows Hello features (PIN entry, Face Recognition sign-in) fail to function as expected following the installation of the April 2025 updates.
## References
- Vendor advisories: Microsoft (Implied via the context of April 2025 updates)
- Relevant links - defanged:
- bleepingcomputer com/news/microsoft/microsoft-april-2025-updates-break-windows-hello-on-some-pcs/
- learn.microsoft com/en-us/windows/release-health/status-windows-11-24h2#3412msgdesc
- learn.microsoft com/en-us/windows/release-health/status-windows-11-24h2#234msgdesc