CVE-2011-0045 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The Trace Events functionality in the kernel in Microsoft Windows XP SP3 does not properly perform type conversion, which causes integer truncation and insufficient memory allocation and triggers a buffer overflow, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted application, related to WmiTraceMessageVa, aka "Windows Kernel Integer Truncation Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0045 represents a critical integer truncation flaw within the Windows kernel's Trace Events functionality, specifically affecting Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 3. This vulnerability resides in the kernel-mode component responsible for handling trace messages through the WmiTraceMessageVa function, which serves as a core mechanism for Windows Management Instrumentation trace operations. The flaw manifests when the kernel fails to properly validate type conversions during trace message processing, creating a scenario where integer values are truncated during arithmetic operations, ultimately leading to insufficient memory allocation for buffer operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a carefully crafted application that manipulates the trace message parameters to trigger the integer truncation condition. When the kernel processes these malicious inputs, the improper type conversion causes an integer overflow that results in a buffer overflow condition within the kernel memory space. This buffer overflow creates an opportunity for privilege escalation, allowing local attackers to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. The vulnerability specifically leverages the WmiTraceMessageVa function which is part of the Windows kernel's tracing infrastructure and is accessible to local users, making exploitation relatively straightforward from a local perspective.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected Windows XP system. Once successfully exploited, the attacker can execute code at the highest privilege level, potentially enabling full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistence mechanisms. The vulnerability affects systems running Windows XP SP3 and earlier versions, making it particularly concerning given the widespread deployment of these older operating systems in enterprise environments. The local privilege escalation vector means that an attacker who has already gained user-level access to a system can leverage this vulnerability to achieve kernel-level control, significantly amplifying the potential damage.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves exploiting legitimate credentials and system access to escalate privileges. The vulnerability's exploitation requires local system access but does not necessitate network connectivity, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users have legitimate access to systems but where privilege escalation could lead to significant compromise. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the relevant Microsoft security updates, disabling unnecessary trace functionality, and implementing strict access controls to limit local user privileges. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious trace message activity and implementing kernel-mode exploit detection mechanisms can help identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper input validation and type conversion handling in kernel-mode code, particularly when dealing with user-supplied data that flows into memory allocation functions.