CVE-2007-4970 in ProcessGuard
Summary
by MITRE
ProcessGuard 3.410 does not properly validate certain parameters to System Service Descriptor Table (SSDT) function handlers, which allows local users to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly gain privileges via kernel SSDT hooks for Windows Native API functions including (1) NtCreateFile, (2) NtCreateKey, (3) NtDeleteValueKey, (4) NtOpenFile, (5) NtOpenKey, and (6) NtSetValueKey.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/08/2018
ProcessGuard 3.410 contains a critical vulnerability in its kernel-mode driver implementation that stems from insufficient validation of parameters passed to System Service Descriptor Table (SSDT) function handlers. This vulnerability specifically affects the handling of Windows Native API functions through kernel-level hooks, creating a path for local attackers to exploit the system's privilege escalation mechanisms. The flaw resides in the driver's failure to properly validate input parameters when intercepting calls to essential system functions such as NtCreateFile, NtCreateKey, NtDeleteValueKey, NtOpenFile, NtOpenKey, and NtSetValueKey. These functions form the foundation of Windows kernel operations and are heavily utilized by both legitimate system processes and potential attackers seeking to manipulate system resources. The vulnerability maps directly to CWE-122, which describes insufficient validation of input parameters, and represents a classic example of improper input validation in kernel-mode drivers that can lead to privilege escalation or system instability. The security implications extend beyond simple denial of service, as the improper parameter validation creates opportunities for attackers to manipulate kernel execution flow and potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability exploits the fundamental trust model within Windows kernel space, where legitimate system calls are intercepted and potentially modified without adequate parameter verification, allowing malicious input to propagate through the system's core services.
The operational impact of this vulnerability manifests in both immediate system instability and long-term security compromise. Local users can trigger system crashes through carefully crafted parameter inputs that cause the kernel to execute invalid memory operations or corrupt critical data structures. Beyond the immediate denial of service effects, the vulnerability creates a potential privilege escalation vector that could allow attackers to gain SYSTEM-level privileges by manipulating the hooking mechanisms. This represents a significant concern for enterprise environments where ProcessGuard is deployed as a security solution, as it creates a scenario where the very tool designed to protect the system becomes a potential attack vector. The vulnerability affects Windows operating systems that utilize the SSDT hooking mechanism for process monitoring and system protection, making it particularly dangerous in environments where kernel-mode security solutions are heavily relied upon. The exploitation process leverages the inherent trust relationships within the Windows kernel, where the driver's hooking mechanism expects valid parameters but receives malicious inputs that cause unexpected behavior in the system's core functions. The attack surface is broad as it encompasses multiple critical system functions that are fundamental to Windows operation and security.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require a multi-layered approach that addresses both immediate remediation and long-term security posture improvements. The most direct solution involves updating to a patched version of ProcessGuard that properly validates all parameters passed to SSDT handlers, ensuring that input validation occurs at the kernel level before any system function execution. System administrators should implement strict access controls and monitoring of kernel-mode driver activity to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers the exploitation of local privileges and kernel-mode vulnerabilities for privilege escalation. Organizations should also consider implementing kernel-mode protection mechanisms such as Driver Signature Enforcement and Windows Defender Application Control to prevent unauthorized driver loading. Regular security assessments of kernel-mode components and comprehensive monitoring of system calls can help identify anomalous behavior that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of proper input validation in kernel-mode code and serves as a reminder that security tools themselves can contain exploitable flaws. Network segmentation and privilege separation should be implemented to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, while comprehensive incident response procedures should be established to address potential compromise scenarios. The remediation process must include thorough testing of patched drivers to ensure compatibility with existing system configurations and security policies.