CVE-2011-1283 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The Client/Server Run-time Subsystem (aka CSRSS) in the Win32 subsystem in Microsoft Windows XP SP2 and SP3, Windows Server 2003 SP2, Windows Vista SP1 and SP2, and Windows Server 2008 Gold and SP2 does not ensure that an unspecified array index has a non-negative value before performing read and write operations, which allows local users to gain privileges or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via a crafted application that triggers an incorrect memory assignment for a user transaction, aka "CSRSS Local EOP SrvSetConsoleNumberOfCommand Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/14/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-1283 resides within the Client/Server Run-time Subsystem component of Microsoft Windows operating systems, specifically affecting Windows XP SP2 and SP3, Windows Server 2003 SP2, Windows Vista SP1 and SP2, and Windows Server 2008 Gold and SP2. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that stems from improper input validation within the Win32 subsystem architecture. The CSRSS process serves as a crucial component responsible for managing console windows and user interface elements, making it a prime target for privilege escalation attacks. The vulnerability manifests when the system fails to validate array index values before executing read and write operations, creating a condition where malicious applications can manipulate memory structures through crafted user transactions.
The technical flaw involves an unspecified array index validation failure that occurs during console number command processing within the CSRSS subsystem. This particular weakness allows attackers to exploit a memory corruption vulnerability by crafting specific applications that trigger incorrect memory assignment patterns. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level within the Windows operating system, where the CSRSS service handles console-related operations and manages user transaction processing. When an application attempts to set console command parameters without proper validation of index values, the system can attempt to access memory locations outside the intended array boundaries, leading to unpredictable behavior. This memory corruption can manifest as either privilege escalation or denial of service conditions, depending on how the attacker manipulates the corrupted memory state.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-1283 extends beyond simple system instability, as it provides local attackers with potential pathways to achieve privilege escalation within affected Windows environments. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-129 indicates it involves improper validation of array index values, which is a well-documented weakness in software security practices. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can potentially elevate their privileges from standard user level to system administrator level, enabling them to execute arbitrary code with elevated permissions. The memory corruption aspect of this vulnerability can also result in system crashes or denial of service conditions, effectively disrupting normal operations. This flaw particularly affects enterprise environments where Windows systems are prevalent, as it requires no network connectivity for exploitation and can be triggered through local application execution. The vulnerability's presence in multiple Windows versions demonstrates the widespread nature of this security weakness across the Windows ecosystem.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-1283 should encompass both immediate patch deployment and defensive operational measures. Microsoft released security updates that addressed this vulnerability through proper input validation within the CSRSS subsystem, requiring system administrators to apply these patches promptly. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the 'Windows Subsystem for Linux' and 'Process Injection' tactics. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all affected systems receive security updates promptly. Additionally, system hardening measures including disabling unnecessary services and implementing least privilege principles can reduce the attack surface. Network segmentation and monitoring for suspicious process execution patterns can help detect exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's nature as a local privilege escalation issue means that traditional network-based security measures may not prevent exploitation, requiring focused attention on endpoint security controls and user access management. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include checks for this specific weakness to ensure comprehensive protection against similar memory corruption vulnerabilities.