CVE-2007-1537 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
\Device\NdisTapi (NDISTAPI.sys) in Microsoft Windows XP SP2 and 2003 SP1 uses weak permissions, which allows local users to write to the device and cause a denial of service, as demonstrated by using an IRQL to acquire a spinlock on paged memory via the NdisTapiDispatch function.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/13/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1537 resides within the NDISTAPI.sys driver component of Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2 and Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1 operating systems. This flaw manifests through improper access control mechanisms implemented in the \Device\NdisTapi device object, which is part of the Network Driver Interface Specification (NDIS) framework that facilitates communication between network drivers and the operating system. The weak permissions assigned to this device create a security boundary failure that allows unauthorized local users to gain write access to critical system resources, representing a significant deviation from the principle of least privilege that should govern system security.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the NdisTapiDispatch function which handles device I/O operations for the NDISTAPI driver. When a local attacker writes to the vulnerable device, they can manipulate the system's interrupt request level (IRQL) to acquire spinlock access on paged memory locations. This manipulation exploits the underlying architecture of Windows kernel mode drivers where spinlocks are used to protect critical sections of code from concurrent access. The specific flaw involves improper handling of memory management during device dispatch operations, allowing attackers to force the system into an inconsistent state where kernel memory becomes corrupted or improperly accessed.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to potentially compromise the stability and integrity of the entire operating system. By leveraging the weak device permissions, attackers can cause system crashes, kernel panics, and unpredictable behavior that may require system restarts or even complete system reinstallation. The vulnerability represents a classic case of privilege escalation through improper access controls, where local users who might otherwise have limited system privileges can leverage this flaw to disrupt system operations and potentially create conditions for more sophisticated attacks. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where local access might be more readily available than expected.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper permissions and access control issues in system components. The flaw also demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves local privilege escalation through exploitation of system vulnerabilities. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability was addressed through proper access control implementation and privilege management updates. Organizations should ensure that all systems are updated to the latest service packs and security patches, as Microsoft released comprehensive updates to correct the permission settings on the NDISTAPI device. The remediation process requires careful attention to driver permission settings and system access control lists to prevent unauthorized write access to kernel-mode device objects, emphasizing the importance of maintaining proper security configurations in operating system components.