CVE-2015-2528 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2, Windows RT Gold and 8.1, and Windows 10 do not properly constrain impersonation levels, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted application, aka "Windows Task Management Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability," a different vulnerability than CVE-2015-2524.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/16/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-2528 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within Microsoft Windows operating systems spanning multiple versions including Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012, Windows RT, and Windows 10. This issue specifically targets the Windows task management component and stems from improper handling of impersonation levels within the operating system's security framework. The flaw allows local attackers to elevate their privileges through carefully crafted applications, bypassing normal security boundaries that should prevent unauthorized access to system resources.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in how Windows manages impersonation levels when processing task management operations. Impersonation levels in Windows security models define the degree to which a process can act on behalf of a user, and the system's failure to properly constrain these levels creates an opportunity for privilege escalation. When a malicious application attempts to perform task management operations, the system should enforce strict security boundaries that prevent unauthorized elevation. However, in this case, the impersonation level constraints are insufficiently enforced, allowing a local user to manipulate the system into granting elevated privileges to malicious code.
This vulnerability operates through a local attack vector where an attacker must already have access to the system but does not require network connectivity or remote exploitation capabilities. The impact of successful exploitation includes the ability to execute code with elevated privileges, potentially allowing attackers to gain system-level access, modify critical system files, install malware, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects multiple Windows versions simultaneously, including both desktop and server operating systems, and can be exploited through legitimate system management interfaces.
The operational implications of CVE-2015-2528 extend beyond simple privilege escalation, as it represents a fundamental flaw in Windows security model implementation. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability operates within the context of the Windows security model where Task Manager and related system management tools should enforce strict access controls. The issue is classified under CWE-269 which deals with "Improper Privilege Management" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation." Organizations should be particularly concerned about the potential for this vulnerability to be combined with other exploits or used as a stepping stone for more comprehensive attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-2528 should focus on immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates, as the vulnerability requires a system-level fix to address the underlying impersonation level constraints. System administrators should also implement additional security controls including limiting local user access to system management tools, monitoring for unusual task management activities, and maintaining strict access controls. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper privilege management and demonstrates why continuous security auditing of system components is essential. Organizations should also consider implementing behavioral monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous task management activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar privilege escalation vulnerabilities that might exist in other system components.