Microsoft’s AI-powered assistant, Copilot Personal, has a vulnerability that could allow hackers to extract sensitive data from connected applications with just one click. This flaw, discovered by researchers, is particularly concerning as it exploits a common issue in identity exposure – where an attacker gains access to a user’s digital identity and uses it to gain unauthorized access to other systems.
The issue lies in the way Copilot Personal handles cross-domain privilege escalation. In simple terms, this means that when a user grants access to one application, they inadvertently grant access to all connected applications as well. This is because many modern applications use a concept called Single-Sign-On (SSO), which allows users to log in once and then seamlessly switch between multiple apps without re-entering their credentials.
When Copilot Personal is involved, it can automatically populate user credentials across these connected applications, essentially creating a “super-profile” that has access to all linked accounts. If an attacker gains access to this super-profile, they can use the connected apps’ permissions to gain unauthorized access to other systems and data. This creates a sort of domino effect, where a single breach can lead to a chain reaction of further breaches.
The researchers behind the discovery noted that this vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows attackers to map out active attack paths. In essence, they can use Copilot Personal’s own features against itself to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in connected applications. This makes it much easier for hackers to launch targeted attacks, as they can now “follow the breadcrumbs” of user activity across multiple systems.
Microsoft has not yet publicly commented on the issue or provided a fix. However, this vulnerability serves as a stark reminder that even seemingly secure AI-powered tools like Copilot Personal can have unintended consequences when used in conjunction with other connected applications. As we increasingly rely on AI to streamline our digital lives, it’s essential to remember that these tools are only as strong as the weakest link in their ecosystem.
So what does this mean for you? When using AI-powered assistants or any connected application, be aware of the potential risks associated with SSO and cross-domain privilege escalation. Make sure to regularly review your app permissions and revoke access to unused accounts. And if you’re using an AI assistant like Copilot Personal, consider taking extra precautions by separating sensitive data from your primary user account – just in case a breach occurs.
Source: The Hacker News — 2026-08-18