CVE-2016-0096 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 8.1, Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2, Windows RT 8.1, and Windows 10 Gold and 1511 allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted application, aka "Win32k Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability," a different vulnerability than CVE-2016-0093, CVE-2016-0094, and CVE-2016-0095.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/09/2022
The CVE-2016-0096 vulnerability represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within the Windows kernel-mode driver subsystem, specifically affecting multiple versions of the windows operating system from vista through windows 10. This vulnerability operates through the win32k.sys driver which manages user-mode graphics components and kernel-mode graphics operations, making it a prime target for exploitation due to its elevated privileges and extensive system integration. The vulnerability enables local attackers to execute malicious code with kernel-level privileges, effectively bypassing standard security boundaries that separate user applications from system-critical components.
The technical flaw manifests as a memory corruption issue within the win32k.sys driver that handles graphics-related operations and user interface components. Attackers can craft malicious applications that exploit improper input validation and memory handling within the graphics subsystem, leading to arbitrary code execution at kernel level. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration category of CWE-121, which deals with stack-based buffer overflows, and CWE-125, which addresses out-of-bounds reads. The exploitation process typically involves leveraging the graphics subsystem to manipulate memory structures and achieve code execution in kernel context, where standard security mitigations like DEP and ASLR become ineffective.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete system compromise capabilities. Once elevated to kernel mode, malicious actors can bypass all user-mode security controls, modify system files, install rootkits, and access sensitive data without detection. The vulnerability affects both desktop and server editions of windows, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where multiple systems may be vulnerable. According to the mitre att&ck framework, this vulnerability maps to the privilege escalation tactic with techniques such as exploitation for privilege escalation and kernel-mode rootkits. The attack surface is broad since graphics operations are fundamental to most user applications and system services, making detection and prevention challenging.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-0096 require immediate patch deployment through microsoft security updates, as the vulnerability was addressed in the march 2016 security bulletin. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures and maintain up-to-date security patches across all affected systems. Additional protective measures include enabling exploit protection features such as application control policies, restricting user privileges, and implementing monitoring solutions to detect anomalous graphics-related system calls. Security professionals should also consider network segmentation and access controls to limit potential attack vectors. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of kernel-level security and highlights the need for robust code review processes in system drivers, particularly those handling user input and graphics operations. Microsoft recommends immediate remediation as this vulnerability has been actively exploited in the wild, making it a high-priority security concern for organizations worldwide.