CVE-2013-3172 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow 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 and R2 SP1, and Windows 7 SP1 allows local users to cause a denial of service (system hang) via a crafted application that leverages improper handling of objects in memory, aka "Win32k Buffer Overflow Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/18/2021
The CVE-2013-3172 vulnerability represents a critical buffer overflow condition within the win32k.sys kernel-mode driver component of Microsoft Windows operating systems. This flaw exists in multiple 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 service pack 1, and windows 7 service pack 1. The vulnerability specifically targets the kernel-mode drivers that handle user interface components and graphics operations, making it particularly dangerous as it operates at the most privileged level of the operating system. The flaw enables local attackers to manipulate memory objects in ways that can cause system instability and complete system hang conditions.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow occurs within the win32k.sys driver which manages windowing system functionality including graphics rendering, user interface elements, and window management operations. When a malicious application attempts to create or manipulate certain graphical objects, the driver fails to properly validate the size or boundaries of memory allocations. This improper handling of object memory management creates a condition where data can be written beyond the allocated buffer space, potentially overwriting adjacent memory regions. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and boundary checking mechanisms within the kernel-mode code that processes user interface operations. The flaw is classified under cwe-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, though it manifests in kernel space rather than user space applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-3172 extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to potentially enable more sophisticated attack vectors. While the primary effect described is system hang, the nature of kernel-mode buffer overflows can create opportunities for privilege escalation or information disclosure if exploited by sophisticated attackers. Local users who can execute malicious code on the target system can leverage this vulnerability to cause system crashes, forcing administrators to restart systems and potentially disrupting business operations. The vulnerability affects systems running in enterprise environments where stability and uptime are critical, making it particularly concerning for organizations with multiple affected systems. According to attack tactics and techniques, this vulnerability aligns with the attack pattern of privilege escalation and denial of service as outlined in the mitre att&ck framework under the system service execution and privilege escalation domains.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-3172 primarily focus on applying microsoft security updates and patches as soon as they become available. organizations should prioritize patch management processes to ensure all affected windows systems receive the necessary updates. additional protective measures include implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized applications from executing, disabling unnecessary graphical services where possible, and monitoring system logs for unusual activity patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential impact if a system becomes compromised. system administrators should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify patterns consistent with buffer overflow exploitation attempts. the vulnerability highlights the importance of kernel-mode security and the need for robust memory management practices in operating system components. organizations should also conduct regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in their computing environments, particularly focusing on legacy systems that may not receive regular security updates.