CVE-2015-2382 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
win32k.sys in the kernel-mode drivers in Microsoft Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2, and Windows RT Gold and 8.1 allows local users to obtain sensitive information from kernel memory via a crafted application, aka "Win32k Information Disclosure Vulnerability," a different vulnerability than CVE-2015-2381.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/31/2022
The CVE-2015-2382 vulnerability resides within the win32k.sys kernel-mode driver component of Microsoft Windows operating systems, affecting versions including Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2, and Windows RT Gold and 8.1. This vulnerability represents a critical information disclosure flaw that enables local attackers to extract sensitive data from kernel memory spaces through carefully crafted applications. The issue stems from improper handling of certain kernel-mode operations within the graphics subsystem, specifically related to how the win32k.sys driver manages user-mode to kernel-mode transitions and memory access controls. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level, making it particularly dangerous as it can potentially be exploited to bypass security mechanisms that normally protect kernel memory from unauthorized access.
This information disclosure vulnerability manifests when malicious applications attempt to interact with the win32k.sys driver through improper parameter validation during graphics-related system calls. The flaw allows attackers to read kernel memory contents that should remain protected, potentially exposing sensitive system information including credentials, encryption keys, or other confidential data stored in kernel memory regions. The vulnerability is classified as a local privilege escalation vector since it requires local system access but can be leveraged to extract privileged information that may aid in further exploitation attempts. From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which describes improper information exposure, and represents a classic example of how kernel-mode driver flaws can create persistent security risks that are difficult to detect and remediate. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it operates within the Windows graphics subsystem, which is actively used by legitimate applications and system processes, making detection more challenging.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-2382 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it creates opportunities for more sophisticated attacks that could lead to full system compromise. Attackers with local access can exploit this vulnerability to gather intelligence about the target system, potentially identifying system configuration details, memory layouts, or other sensitive information that could be used in subsequent attacks. The vulnerability's persistence in multiple Windows versions indicates a fundamental flaw in the driver implementation that required patching across several product lines. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1059, specifically the use of system services and kernel-level components for information gathering, and T1068, which involves exploiting local system privileges to escalate access. The vulnerability's nature makes it particularly dangerous in environments where local access is possible, such as in corporate networks where users may have legitimate system access but could be compromised through social engineering or other means.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-2382 primarily involve applying Microsoft security updates and patches that address the underlying kernel-mode driver vulnerability. Organizations should prioritize patch management to ensure all affected Windows systems receive the necessary updates, as the vulnerability exists in multiple versions of the operating system. Additionally, implementing least privilege principles and restricting local user access can help limit the potential impact of exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual patterns of system calls related to graphics subsystem interactions, as these may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of kernel-mode driver security and the need for robust code review processes, particularly for components that handle user-mode to kernel-mode transitions. From a compliance standpoint, this vulnerability demonstrates the necessity of maintaining up-to-date security patches and conducting regular vulnerability assessments to identify and remediate similar kernel-level flaws that could create persistent security risks across enterprise environments.