CVE-2010-0236 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The kernel in Microsoft Windows 2000 SP4, XP SP2 and SP3, Server 2003 SP2, and Vista Gold does not properly allocate memory for the destination key associated with a symbolic-link registry key, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted application, aka "Windows Kernel Memory Allocation Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/08/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0236 represents a critical memory allocation flaw within the Windows kernel operating system family. This issue affects multiple versions including Windows 2000 Service Pack 4, Windows XP Service Packs 2 and 3, Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 2, and Windows Vista Gold editions. The core problem lies in how the kernel handles memory allocation for destination keys when processing symbolic-link registry keys, creating a potential privilege escalation vector that could be exploited by local attackers.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management during registry key operations, specifically when symbolic links are processed within the kernel space. When a symbolic link registry key is created or accessed, the kernel fails to properly validate or allocate sufficient memory for the destination key structure. This memory allocation flaw creates a condition where an attacker-controlled application can manipulate the memory layout to overwrite critical kernel structures or execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level, making it particularly dangerous as it can bypass standard user-mode protections and security mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-0236 is significant as it provides local users with the ability to escalate privileges from standard user level to system level access. This means that any malicious application running on an affected system could potentially gain full administrative control, allowing for complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent access. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires no network connectivity or user interaction beyond running the malicious application, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking to establish footholds on compromised systems. The exploitability is enhanced by the fact that the vulnerability exists in widely deployed operating system versions, increasing the potential attack surface.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve immediate application of Microsoft security patches and updates, as the issue was addressed through official security releases. System administrators should prioritize patch deployment across all affected Windows versions, particularly in enterprise environments where multiple systems may be exposed. Additional protective measures include implementing least privilege principles, disabling unnecessary registry access, and monitoring for suspicious registry key manipulation activities. From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which addresses improper validation of the length of input data, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers privilege escalation through kernel exploits. Organizations should also consider implementing behavioral monitoring solutions to detect anomalous registry access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper memory management in kernel code and highlights the critical need for thorough security testing of core operating system components.