CVE-2016-0167 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-2016-0165.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/23/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-0167 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 within the win32k.sys driver which manages user-mode graphics components and handles windowing system operations. The flaw enables local attackers with standard user privileges to execute malicious code that can elevate their access level to system level privileges, creating a significant security risk for affected systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper validation of user-supplied data within the graphics subsystem's kernel driver. Attackers can craft malicious applications that exploit memory corruption issues in the win32k.sys driver when processing specific graphics operations. The vulnerability manifests through a use-after-free condition or similar memory management error that allows attackers to manipulate kernel memory structures. This type of flaw falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within kernel space where privilege escalation is possible, making it a prime target for exploitation.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a severe threat landscape for enterprise environments where local user access might be compromised through social engineering, phishing attacks, or other initial compromise vectors. The attack requires only local system access, meaning that an attacker who has already gained a foothold on a system can leverage this vulnerability to achieve system-level control. This capability allows for complete system compromise, data exfiltration, persistence establishment, and lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects a broad range of windows operating systems, making it particularly impactful for organizations with diverse desktop and server deployments. According to the attack technique framework, this vulnerability aligns with T1068, which covers privilege escalation through local exploitation, and T1059, which covers execution through command and scripting interpreters.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-0167 require immediate implementation of microsoft security patches and updates to address the underlying kernel driver vulnerability. Organizations should prioritize patch management processes to ensure all affected systems receive the appropriate security updates. Additionally, implementing security controls such as application whitelisting, disabling unnecessary graphics features, and monitoring for suspicious kernel-mode activities can provide additional layers of protection. System administrators should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege, ensuring that users have only the minimum necessary permissions to perform their duties. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of kernel-mode security and the critical need for robust input validation and memory management practices in operating system components. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues before they can be exploited by malicious actors.