CVE-2013-1271 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
Race condition in win32k.sys in the kernel-mode drivers in Microsoft Windows XP SP2 and SP3, Windows Server 2003 SP2, Windows Vista SP2, Windows Server 2008 SP2, R2, and R2 SP1, and Windows 7 Gold and SP1 allows local users to gain privileges, and consequently read the contents of arbitrary kernel memory locations, via a crafted application, a different vulnerability than other CVEs listed in MS13-016.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/28/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2013-1271 represents a critical race condition flaw within the win32k.sys kernel-mode driver component of Microsoft Windows operating systems. This issue affects a broad range of Microsoft Windows versions including Windows xp service pack 2 and 3, windows server 2003 service pack 2, windows vista service pack 2, windows server 2008 service pack 2 and r2 with service pack 1, and windows 7 gold and service pack 1. The race condition occurs in the kernel-mode drivers that handle graphics and user interface functionality, specifically within the win32k.sys module responsible for windowing system operations.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper synchronization mechanisms within the win32k.sys driver during concurrent access to shared kernel memory resources. When multiple threads or processes attempt to access the same kernel memory location simultaneously, the lack of proper locking mechanisms allows for unpredictable behavior that can be exploited by malicious code. This race condition creates a window of opportunity where an attacker can manipulate the timing of operations to achieve unauthorized access to kernel memory spaces. The flaw specifically manifests when a crafted application attempts to perform operations that trigger the race condition, allowing local users to escalate their privileges from standard user level to kernel level access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides local attackers with the ability to read arbitrary kernel memory locations, effectively bypassing kernel-mode protection mechanisms. This privilege escalation capability enables attackers to access sensitive system information, extract credentials, manipulate system processes, and potentially gain complete system control. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the kernel level where normal user-mode security restrictions do not apply, making it extremely difficult to detect and prevent. The attack requires local system access but does not need network connectivity, making it particularly concerning for environments where physical access is possible or where attackers have already compromised other system components.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with common weakness enumerations such as cwe-362, which describes race conditions in concurrent programming, and follows attack patterns documented in the attack tree framework where privilege escalation represents a critical attack vector. The flaw demonstrates the importance of proper synchronization mechanisms in kernel-mode drivers and highlights the risks associated with complex interaction patterns between multiple system components. Mitigation strategies should include immediate application of microsoft security patches, implementation of privilege separation controls, regular system monitoring for suspicious kernel access patterns, and adherence to the principle of least privilege. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify potential exploitation vectors and implement network segmentation to limit the impact of successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the necessity of robust code review processes for kernel-mode components and emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches across all supported operating systems.