CVE-2016-0143 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-2016-0165 and CVE-2016-0167.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/31/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-0143 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within the Windows kernel-mode driver subsystem, specifically affecting multiple versions of the Microsoft Windows operating system. This vulnerability resides in the win32k.sys driver which manages user interface components and graphics rendering functions in the kernel space. The flaw enables local attackers with standard user privileges to execute malicious code that can elevate their access level to system-level privileges, effectively bypassing the operating system's security boundaries. This issue is particularly concerning because it operates entirely within the kernel context, making traditional user-mode protections ineffective against exploitation.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability involves improper validation of user-supplied data within the win32k.sys driver when processing certain graphics-related API calls. Attackers can craft malicious applications that manipulate kernel-mode data structures through carefully constructed input parameters, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-119 as a weakness involving improper restriction of operations within a restricted environment, specifically manifesting as insufficient input validation in kernel-mode components. This type of flaw demonstrates the inherent risks associated with kernel-mode programming where a single validation error can compromise the entire system security model.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-0143 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete control over affected systems. Once successfully exploited, adversaries can install malware, modify system files, create persistent backdoors, and access sensitive data without detection. The vulnerability affects a broad range of Windows versions including legacy systems like Windows Vista and Server 2008, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where older systems may still be operational. This vulnerability is categorized under the ATT&CK technique T1068 for "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" and specifically demonstrates how kernel-mode vulnerabilities can be leveraged for persistent system compromise. The attack surface is particularly wide since many legitimate applications interact with graphics rendering APIs, increasing the likelihood of exploitation through social engineering or supply chain attacks.
Microsoft addressed this vulnerability through comprehensive security updates released in their regular patch Tuesday cycle, requiring system administrators to deploy these patches promptly to mitigate the risk. Organizations should implement layered security approaches including regular patch management, network monitoring for suspicious activities, and user access controls to minimize the potential impact of such vulnerabilities. The remediation process involves updating the win32k.sys driver component and ensuring all affected systems receive the necessary security patches. Additionally, security teams should monitor for indicators of compromise related to privilege escalation attempts and maintain updated threat intelligence to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and the inherent risks associated with kernel-mode vulnerabilities that can provide complete system compromise.