CVE-2016-0006 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The sandbox implementation 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 Gold and 1511 mishandles reparse points, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted application, aka "Windows Mount Point Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability," a different vulnerability than CVE-2016-0007.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/09/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2016-0006 represents a critical sandbox implementation flaw within Microsoft Windows operating systems that affects multiple versions including Vista SP2 through Windows 10 version 1511. This issue specifically targets the Windows sandbox mechanism's handling of reparse points, which are file system objects that redirect file system requests to alternative locations. The vulnerability is classified as a privilege escalation flaw that allows local attackers to bypass security restrictions and elevate their privileges from standard user level to administrative rights. The flaw exists in the way Windows processes reparse points within its sandboxed environment, creating a pathway for malicious applications to circumvent the intended security boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper validation of reparse point operations within the Windows file system sandbox. When applications attempt to access certain file system locations, Windows uses reparse points to redirect these requests to different targets. The sandbox mechanism fails to properly validate these reparse point operations, allowing crafted applications to manipulate the redirection process in ways that were not intended. This misimplementation creates a situation where a local user can craft a malicious application that exploits the reparse point handling to gain elevated privileges. The vulnerability specifically affects Windows versions from Vista SP2 through Windows 10 version 1511, indicating a widespread impact across Microsoft's operating system ecosystem.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides local attackers with a straightforward path to privilege escalation without requiring external network access or complex exploitation techniques. An attacker with standard user privileges can execute a crafted application that leverages the reparse point handling flaw to gain administrative rights on the target system. This elevation of privilege allows the attacker to perform actions such as installing malicious software, modifying system files, accessing sensitive data, and potentially establishing persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability's presence in multiple Windows versions means that organizations running any of these affected operating systems are at risk, regardless of their security posture or additional protective measures.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-120, which addresses "Buffer Overflow" and related issues in Windows file system handling, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation." Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the relevant Microsoft security updates, disabling unnecessary reparse point functionality where possible, and monitoring for suspicious file system access patterns. Additional protective measures include implementing least privilege principles, regularly auditing system access logs, and maintaining up-to-date security monitoring solutions. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper file system handling in sandbox implementations and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of core operating system components that handle file system operations and privilege boundaries.