CVE-2015-6132 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
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 Gold and 1511 mishandle library loading, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted application, aka "Windows Library Loading Remote Code Execution Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/08/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-6132 represents a critical flaw in Microsoft Windows operating systems that affects a broad range of platforms including Windows Vista SP2 through Windows 10 version 1511. This issue stems from improper handling of library loading mechanisms within the Windows operating system, creating a privilege escalation vector that adversaries can exploit to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability specifically targets the Windows library loading process, which is fundamental to how applications load dynamic link libraries and execute system functions.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the manner Windows resolves and loads dynamic link libraries when applications are executed. When a malicious application attempts to load a library, the operating system follows a specific search order that can be manipulated by attackers. This flaw allows local users to place malicious DLL files in locations that Windows will prioritize during the loading process, effectively bypassing normal security mechanisms. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element, which specifically addresses situations where the search path for loading libraries is not properly controlled, enabling attackers to inject malicious code. This weakness creates a condition where legitimate system paths can be overridden by attacker-controlled content, leading to privilege escalation.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-6132 is significant as it allows local attackers to escalate their privileges from standard user level to system level execution. This privilege escalation capability enables adversaries to perform actions such as installing malicious software, modifying system files, creating new user accounts, or accessing sensitive data that would otherwise be restricted. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious documents, installers, or applications that leverage the flawed library loading mechanism. Security researchers have mapped this vulnerability to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers the use of privilege escalation techniques through local exploitation, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users may execute untrusted applications or documents.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require a multi-layered approach that addresses both the immediate threat and broader system security posture. Microsoft released security updates that corrected the library loading behavior and implemented additional protections against malicious DLL injection attempts. System administrators should prioritize applying these security patches immediately, as the vulnerability has been actively exploited in the wild. Additional defensive measures include implementing application whitelisting policies, enabling Windows Defender Application Control, and configuring the Windows search path to reduce the risk of malicious DLL loading. Organizations should also consider implementing least privilege principles, ensuring that users operate with minimal required permissions and that administrative privileges are only granted when necessary. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper library loading controls and highlights the need for continuous security monitoring and patch management processes that can quickly address such foundational security flaws.