CVE-2003-0350 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The control for listing accessibility options in the Accessibility Utility Manager on Windows 2000 (ListView) does not properly handle Windows messages, which allows local users to execute arbitrary code via a "Shatter" style message to the Utility Manager that references a user-controlled callback function.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/17/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2003-0350 represents a critical buffer overflow condition within the Windows 2000 Accessibility Utility Manager component, specifically affecting the ListView control responsible for displaying accessibility options. This flaw exists in the message handling mechanism of the utility manager, where the system fails to properly validate or sanitize Windows messages received through the message queue. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the kernel level within the accessibility framework, which is designed to provide assistive features for users with disabilities but inadvertently becomes a vector for privilege escalation. The flaw allows local attackers to manipulate the message handling process by sending specially crafted "Shatter" style messages that reference user-controlled callback functions, effectively bypassing normal security boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper message validation within the ListView control of the Accessibility Utility Manager. When the system processes Windows messages intended for accessibility options, it fails to properly validate the message parameters, particularly those related to callback function pointers. This creates an opportunity for attackers to inject malicious code through carefully constructed message sequences that exploit the lack of input sanitization. The vulnerability operates under the principles of heap-based buffer overflows and arbitrary code execution, where the attacker can manipulate memory layout to redirect execution flow to malicious code. The flaw specifically relates to CWE-121, heap-based buffer overflow, and CWE-787, out-of-bounds write, both of which are fundamental memory corruption vulnerabilities that enable privilege escalation attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2003-0350 is severe as it allows local users to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Since the accessibility utility manager runs with high privileges and is designed to be accessible to all users, an attacker can exploit this vulnerability without requiring remote network access. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it leverages legitimate system components that are expected to be secure, making detection more difficult. The vulnerability essentially provides a backdoor mechanism that allows attackers to bypass normal authentication and authorization checks, enabling them to gain administrative access to the system. This creates a persistent threat that can be used for data exfiltration, system monitoring, or further lateral movement within a network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The primary recommendation involves applying the official Microsoft security patch that corrects the message handling logic in the Accessibility Utility Manager component. Organizations should also implement the principle of least privilege by restricting access to accessibility features and ensuring that only authorized users can interact with these system components. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary accessibility features when not required, implementing application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized code execution, and monitoring for anomalous message handling patterns in system logs. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1068, exploit for privilege escalation, and T1546, event trigger, as it exploits legitimate system components to achieve unauthorized code execution. Network segmentation and regular security audits should be implemented to detect potential exploitation attempts and ensure that all systems remain patched against this and similar vulnerabilities.