CVE-2015-2454 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The kernel-mode driver 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, and Windows RT Gold and 8.1 does not properly constrain impersonation levels, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted application, aka "Windows KMD Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability."
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/08/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-2454 represents a critical security flaw in the kernel-mode driver component of multiple Microsoft Windows operating systems including Vista SP2, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2, and Windows RT Gold and 8.1. This issue falls under the category of privilege escalation vulnerabilities and specifically targets the Windows Kernel Mode Driver (KMD) security mechanisms that are designed to prevent unauthorized access to system resources. The flaw stems from improper handling of impersonation levels within the kernel-mode driver, creating a pathway for malicious actors to bypass critical security controls that normally protect system integrity.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the kernel-mode driver's failure to properly constrain impersonation levels during security operations. Impersonation levels in Windows security architecture define the degree to which a process can act on behalf of another user or system context, and they serve as critical boundaries for privilege management. When these levels are not properly enforced, an attacker can manipulate the system to elevate their privileges from a standard user account to SYSTEM level access. The vulnerability allows local users to craft malicious applications that exploit this weakness, effectively bypassing the security features that should normally prevent such privilege escalation. This flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates at the kernel level where the most critical system protections reside, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking maximum system control.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-2454 is severe and far-reaching, as it enables local privilege escalation attacks that can result in complete system compromise. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain SYSTEM-level privileges, which provides them with unrestricted access to all system resources, files, and processes. This level of access allows for persistent system control, data exfiltration, installation of additional malware, and modification of critical system components. The vulnerability affects a wide range of Windows operating systems spanning multiple versions, making it a particularly attractive target for attackers seeking broad exploitation capabilities. The fact that this vulnerability operates through kernel-mode drivers means that traditional user-mode security controls become ineffective, as the attack occurs at a level where system-level protections are bypassed.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-2454 should focus on immediate patching and system hardening measures. Microsoft released security updates that address this vulnerability, and organizations should prioritize deployment of these patches across all affected systems. In environments where patching cannot be immediately implemented, administrators should consider implementing additional security controls such as disabling unnecessary services, restricting user privileges, and monitoring for suspicious process activity. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers 'Local Privilege Escalation' and CWE-264, which addresses 'Permissions, Privileges, and Access Controls'. Organizations should also implement monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous impersonation activities and privilege escalation attempts, as these patterns often precede successful exploitation of such kernel-mode vulnerabilities. The security community has classified this vulnerability as high-risk due to its ability to enable complete system compromise with minimal user interaction requirements.