CVE-2015-1769 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
Mount Manager in Microsoft Windows Vista SP2, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2, Windows RT Gold and 8.1, and Windows 10 mishandles symlinks, which allows physically proximate attackers to execute arbitrary code by connecting a crafted USB device, aka "Mount Manager Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/22/2026
The Mount Manager component in Microsoft Windows operating systems contains a critical privilege escalation vulnerability that stems from improper handling of symbolic links during device mounting operations. This vulnerability affects a broad range of Windows versions including Vista SP2, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012, Windows RT, and Windows 10. The flaw specifically resides in how the system processes symbolic link references when mounting removable storage devices, creating an opportunity for attackers to elevate their privileges from standard user level to system level execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a carefully crafted USB device that contains malicious symbolic links which the Mount Manager processes during device connection. When a user connects such a device, the Mount Manager incorrectly resolves these symbolic links without proper privilege checks, allowing an attacker to manipulate the device mounting process and gain elevated privileges. This represents a classic privilege escalation flaw where a low-privilege user can leverage a system component to achieve system-level access. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only physical proximity to the target system and can be exploited through simple USB device insertion, making it highly practical for real-world attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete control over affected systems. Once exploited, attackers can execute arbitrary code with system privileges, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistence mechanisms. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it can be executed through common removable media such as USB drives, thumb drives, or external storage devices, making it difficult to prevent through traditional network-based security measures. This vulnerability affects enterprise environments where users frequently connect removable devices, creating numerous potential attack surfaces.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include applying Microsoft security patches promptly, implementing strict USB device policies, and disabling autorun features that automatically execute code when devices are connected. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting controls to prevent unauthorized code execution and monitor for suspicious device mounting activities. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-264, which addresses permissions, privileges, and access controls, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers exploit for privilege escalation. System administrators should prioritize patch management and user education to reduce the risk of exploitation, as the vulnerability requires minimal technical skill to exploit and can be automated through malicious USB devices.