CVE-2010-0482 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The kernel in Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows 7 does not properly validate relocation sections of image files, which allows local users to cause a denial of service (reboot) via a crafted file, aka "Windows Kernel Malformed Image Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/30/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0482 represents a critical flaw in the Windows kernel's handling of image file relocation sections, specifically affecting Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows 7 operating systems. This issue stems from inadequate validation mechanisms within the kernel's loader component that processes dynamic link library files and executable images. The vulnerability operates at the core level of the operating system, exploiting a fundamental weakness in how the kernel interprets and processes relocation information embedded within portable executable files. When a maliciously crafted file is processed, the kernel fails to properly validate the relocation sections, leading to unpredictable behavior that can result in system instability and complete reboot cycles.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it squarely within the realm of kernel-level exploitation, where improper input validation leads to system-wide consequences. The flaw manifests when the kernel attempts to load an executable or dynamic link library that contains malformed relocation data within its image header. This type of vulnerability is classified under CWE-129 as "Improper Validation of Array Index" and falls under the broader category of improper input validation issues that can lead to privilege escalation or denial of service conditions. The kernel's image loader component does not perform adequate bounds checking or validation of relocation entries, allowing attackers to craft files that contain malicious relocation data that causes the kernel to crash or reboot during the loading process.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to enterprise environments where Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 systems are deployed. Local attackers with minimal privileges can exploit this flaw to cause persistent denial of service conditions, forcing system reboots and disrupting normal business operations. The impact extends beyond simple service interruption as these reboots can occur repeatedly, potentially leading to system downtime and data loss. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the kernel level, making it difficult to detect and prevent through traditional application-level security measures. Attackers can leverage this weakness to create persistent denial of service conditions that are challenging to mitigate without system-level intervention.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with techniques documented in the ATT&CK framework under the T1059.001 sub-technique for Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically focusing on the use of kernel-mode exploitation to achieve system compromise. While the initial impact is limited to denial of service, the underlying flaw represents a potential pathway for more sophisticated attacks that could escalate privileges or establish persistence within the target system. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of robust input validation at all levels of system operation, particularly within kernel components that handle critical system resources. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for comprehensive security testing and validation of system components that process external data, especially those operating at the most privileged levels of the operating system architecture.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-0482 should focus on implementing proper system updates and patches provided by Microsoft, as well as network segmentation and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security controls such as application whitelisting and enhanced logging of kernel-level activities to identify anomalous behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include checks for outdated operating systems that remain vulnerable to this and similar kernel-level flaws. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current security patches and demonstrates the critical role that timely vulnerability remediation plays in protecting enterprise environments from persistent threats that exploit fundamental system weaknesses.