CVE-2016-0174 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The kernel-mode drivers 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 allow local users to gain privileges via a crafted application, aka "Win32k Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability," a different vulnerability than CVE-2016-0171, CVE-2016-0173, and CVE-2016-0196.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/18/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-0174 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within the Windows kernel-mode drivers, specifically affecting multiple versions of the windows operating system including vista sp2 server 2008 sp2 and r2 sp1 windows 7 sp1 windows 81 windows server 2012 gold and r2 windows rt 81 and windows 10 gold and 1511. this issue falls under the category of win32k elevation of privilege vulnerability which demonstrates how local attackers can exploit kernel-mode components to execute code with elevated privileges. the vulnerability stems from improper validation of user-mode input within kernel-mode driver functions that handle graphics and user interface operations through the win32k.sys component. according to cwe classification this represents a weakness in the input validation process where the kernel fails to properly sanitize or verify data structures passed from user-mode applications. the attack vector involves a malicious application crafted to exploit the vulnerable driver functions, specifically targeting the graphics subsystem and user interface handling mechanisms. the operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it allows a local user to escalate their privileges from standard user level to system level access without requiring any additional authentication or external exploitation. once successfully exploited, the attacker gains complete control over the affected system including the ability to install programs modify system configurations and access all user data. this vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates entirely within the kernel space where the security boundaries between user and system modes are breached, making it extremely difficult to detect and prevent through traditional user-mode security controls. the exploitation process typically involves creating a malicious application that triggers the vulnerable code path within win32k.sys through improper parameter handling during graphics operations or user interface rendering. the attack chain follows the typical pattern of local privilege escalation where initial access is gained through legitimate user execution followed by kernel-mode exploitation to achieve system-level privileges. organizations running affected windows versions face significant risk as this vulnerability can be exploited by malware or malicious insiders without requiring network connectivity or external attack vectors. the vulnerability also aligns with several tactics described in the attack pattern taxonomy including privilege escalation and persistence mechanisms that attackers can leverage to maintain control over compromised systems. mitigation strategies include applying microsoft security patches immediately and implementing additional security controls such as disabling unnecessary graphics functionality and monitoring for suspicious kernel-mode activity. system administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and reducing the attack surface by disabling unnecessary components that could be exploited through this vulnerability. the remediation process requires careful consideration of the patch deployment schedule since these vulnerable systems may be critical to business operations and require proper testing before implementation. organizations should also conduct vulnerability assessments to identify systems running the affected windows versions and prioritize patching based on risk assessment and business impact analysis. this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of kernel-mode security and the potential consequences when proper input validation and privilege separation mechanisms fail within core operating system components. the attack surface for this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to include potential data exfiltration and system compromise scenarios that could affect entire network infrastructures. security professionals should monitor for indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability and implement appropriate detection measures to identify potential exploitation attempts within their environments.