CVE-2016-0165 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-2016-0143 and CVE-2016-0167.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/23/2026
The CVE-2016-0165 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 resides in the win32k.sys driver which manages user interface components and handles graphics operations, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to elevate their privileges from standard user level to system level access. The flaw allows local attackers to execute malicious code that can manipulate kernel memory and bypass security mechanisms that typically protect system integrity.
This vulnerability operates through a use-after-free condition in the win32k.sys driver where improper handling of user-mode objects can lead to memory corruption. When a malicious application creates and manipulates specific graphics objects, it can cause the kernel to free memory that is subsequently accessed again, creating a scenario where attacker-controlled data can overwrite critical kernel structures. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-416 as a use-after-free error, which is a common class of memory safety issues that can lead to arbitrary code execution in kernel space. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it requires only local system access and does not need network connectivity or user interaction, making it highly exploitable in targeted attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-0165 is severe as successful exploitation allows attackers to achieve system-level privileges without requiring administrative credentials or complex attack vectors. Once elevated, malicious actors can modify system files, install rootkits, access encrypted data, and potentially establish persistence mechanisms within the compromised system. The vulnerability affects the fundamental security model of windows operating systems by undermining the kernel-mode protection that separates user applications from system-critical processes. This weakness enables attackers to bypass standard security controls including user access control, code integrity checks, and privilege separation mechanisms that are essential for maintaining system security boundaries.
Microsoft addressed this vulnerability through the release of security patches in their regular update cycle, but the vulnerability remained exploitable until systems were properly updated. The exploit development for this vulnerability typically follows techniques outlined in the attack framework, where attackers leverage the memory corruption to redirect execution flow through return-oriented programming or direct code injection methods. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all affected systems receive updates promptly. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining updated security baselines and implementing additional defensive measures such as exploit prevention technologies, application whitelisting, and monitoring for anomalous kernel activity that might indicate exploitation attempts.
The vulnerability demonstrates the critical nature of kernel-mode security in modern operating systems and the potential consequences of memory safety issues in privileged components. It serves as a reminder of the importance of continuous security assessments and the need for robust code review processes in system-critical components. Security professionals should monitor for indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability and ensure that systems are protected against similar memory corruption vulnerabilities that may exist in other kernel components. The exploitation of such vulnerabilities often requires sophisticated techniques and typically aligns with advanced persistent threat campaigns where attackers seek long-term access to target systems through privilege escalation.