CVE-2013-1286 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The USB 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, Windows 7 Gold and SP1, Windows 8, and Windows Server 2012 do not properly handle objects in memory, which allows physically proximate attackers to execute arbitrary code by connecting a crafted USB device, aka "Windows USB Descriptor Vulnerability," a different vulnerability than CVE-2013-1285 and CVE-2013-1287.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/06/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-1286 represents a critical flaw in Microsoft Windows operating systems that affects multiple versions including XP SP2 and SP3, Windows Server 2003 SP2, Vista SP2, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2, Windows 7 Gold and SP1, Windows 8, and Windows Server 2012. This security issue resides within the USB kernel-mode drivers and specifically concerns improper handling of objects in memory, creating a significant attack surface that can be exploited by adversaries with physical proximity to targeted systems. The vulnerability operates under the moniker "Windows USB Descriptor Vulnerability" and is distinct from related vulnerabilities CVE-2013-1285 and CVE-2013-1287, establishing its unique characteristics within the Windows USB subsystem.
The technical flaw manifests when a crafted USB device is connected to a vulnerable system, triggering a memory handling error that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. This vulnerability exploits the way Windows processes USB device descriptors and related kernel-mode driver objects, specifically when these objects are not properly validated or sanitized during the USB enumeration process. The memory corruption occurs during the processing of USB device configuration data, where insufficient bounds checking and memory management practices enable attackers to manipulate memory structures and gain unauthorized code execution capabilities. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations, both of which are common in kernel-mode driver vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-1286 is particularly severe because it enables attackers to execute code remotely through physical proximity, eliminating the need for network-based attack vectors or complex exploitation techniques. This characteristic places organizations at significant risk since attackers can simply connect a malicious USB device to a target system, potentially bypassing traditional network security controls and endpoint protection mechanisms. The vulnerability's exploitability is enhanced by the fact that it requires minimal user interaction beyond physical device connection, making it particularly dangerous in environments where USB devices are frequently used for data transfer or system administration. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and potentially compromise entire networks through lateral movement and data exfiltration.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-1286 should prioritize immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates, as the vendor has provided specific fixes for affected Windows versions. Organizations should implement USB device control policies that restrict unauthorized USB device connections and disable unnecessary USB functionality where possible. The implementation of endpoint detection and response solutions can help identify suspicious USB device connections and potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, security awareness training should emphasize the risks of connecting unknown USB devices to corporate systems. From a compliance perspective, this vulnerability relates to security standards such as NIST SP 800-53 controls and ISO 27001 requirements for secure configuration management. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for Windows Command Shell and T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, highlighting the potential for attackers to leverage this vulnerability for broader system compromise and persistent access within targeted environments.