CVE-2010-1886 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Windows XP SP2 and SP3, Windows Server 2003 SP2, Windows Vista SP1 and SP2, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2, and Windows 7 allow local users to gain privileges by leveraging access to a process with NetworkService credentials, as demonstrated by TAPI Server, SQL Server, and IIS processes, and related to the Windows Service Isolation feature. NOTE: the vendor states that privilege escalation from NetworkService to LocalSystem does not cross a "security boundary."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/25/2025
This vulnerability represents a privilege escalation flaw in Microsoft Windows operating systems that affects multiple versions including Windows XP SP2 and SP3, Windows Server 2003 SP2, Windows Vista SP1 and SP2, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2, and Windows 7. The issue stems from the Windows Service Isolation feature which is designed to provide security boundaries between different service processes running with varying privilege levels. The vulnerability specifically exploits the ability of local users to leverage access to processes running with NetworkService credentials to escalate privileges. This occurs through the manipulation of service isolation mechanisms that should normally prevent such privilege escalation across security boundaries.
The technical flaw manifests when a local attacker gains access to a process that operates with NetworkService privileges, which is a low-privilege account typically used for services that require network access but not local system access. The vulnerability allows these attackers to exploit the service isolation feature in a way that bypasses expected security controls, potentially enabling them to escalate privileges to LocalSystem level. This escalation is particularly concerning because LocalSystem has the highest privileges on the Windows system, providing complete control over all system resources and data. The exploit demonstrates how the TAPI Server, SQL Server, and IIS processes can be leveraged as attack vectors, as these services commonly run with NetworkService credentials and are accessible to local users.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for organizations running affected Windows systems, as it provides a pathway for local attackers to gain elevated privileges without requiring additional authentication or exploitation of other vulnerabilities. This type of privilege escalation can lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to install malware, modify system files, access sensitive data, and potentially move laterally within a network. The vulnerability affects the fundamental security model of Windows service isolation, undermining the principle of least privilege that is critical for maintaining system security. Organizations with multiple affected systems face a heightened risk of persistent threats and data breaches when this vulnerability remains unpatched.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability include applying the relevant Microsoft security updates that address the Windows Service Isolation feature and privilege escalation mechanisms. System administrators should ensure that all affected Windows systems are updated with the latest security patches from Microsoft. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and privilege management policies can help reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-269, which covers "Improper Privilege Management," and relates to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation." Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring for unusual privilege escalation activities, as this vulnerability can be used as a stepping stone for more extensive attacks. The vendor's statement that privilege escalation does not cross a "security boundary" is misleading, as the vulnerability effectively creates a boundary that can be crossed through proper exploitation techniques, making it a serious concern for system security.