CVE-2000-0946 in Easy Access Keyboard Software
Summary
by MITRE
Compaq Easy Access Keyboard software 1.3 does not properly disable access to custom buttons when the screen is locked, which could allow an attacker to gain privileges or execute programs without authorization.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/06/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0946 affects Compaq Easy Access Keyboard software version 1.3, representing a critical security flaw in the keyboard management system's implementation of screen lock protection mechanisms. This issue stems from improper handling of custom button functionality when the system enters a locked state, creating a persistent security gap that undermines the fundamental purpose of screen locking protocols.
The technical flaw manifests in the software's failure to adequately restrict access to programmable keyboard buttons when the display is secured through the lock mechanism. Specifically, the vulnerability occurs at the application layer where the keyboard driver and user interface components do not properly enforce access controls during the screen lock transition. This allows unauthorized users to interact with custom-defined keyboard shortcuts and functions that should only be available to authenticated users, creating a direct pathway for privilege escalation.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to system security and data integrity. An attacker who gains physical access to a locked system can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary programs or commands through the custom keyboard buttons, potentially bypassing authentication mechanisms entirely. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the hardware-software interface level, where user input is processed before reaching the operating system's security controls, making it difficult to detect and prevent through traditional software-based security measures.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it can facilitate more sophisticated attacks including privilege escalation, lateral movement within network environments, and potential data exfiltration. The flaw aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control in software applications, and demonstrates how physical security mechanisms can be undermined by software implementation weaknesses. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation and execution categories, specifically targeting the initial access and persistence phases of attack chains.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2000-0946 should focus on immediate software updates and patches provided by Compaq, though given the age of this vulnerability, organizations should consider replacing affected keyboard hardware and software components. System administrators should implement additional access controls and monitor for unauthorized keyboard button usage patterns. The vulnerability highlights the importance of comprehensive security testing for all system components, particularly those that interface directly with user input mechanisms, and emphasizes the need for robust access control implementation across all layers of the computing stack. Organizations should also consider implementing additional physical security measures and user education programs to reduce the risk of exploitation in environments where unauthorized physical access cannot be prevented.