CVE-2017-11853 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
Windows kernel in Windows 7 SP1, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 8.1 and RT 8.1, Server 2012 and R2, Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703, and 1709, Windows Server 2016, and Windows Server, version 1709 allows an attacker to log in and run a specially crafted application due to the Windows kernel improperly initializing a memory address, aka "Windows Kernel Information Disclosure Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2017-11842, CVE-2017-11849, and CVE-2017-11851.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/23/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2017-11853 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within the Windows kernel that affects multiple versions of the Windows operating system. This vulnerability specifically impacts Windows 7 SP1, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 8.1 and RT 8.1, Server 2012 and R2, Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703, and 1709, as well as Windows Server 2016 and Windows Server version 1709. The flaw stems from improper memory address initialization within the kernel, creating a pathway for attackers to gain unauthorized access and execute malicious code. This vulnerability is distinct from related issues CVE-2017-11842, CVE-2017-11849, and CVE-2017-11851, each representing separate kernel-level weaknesses that collectively demonstrate the complexity of Windows kernel security architecture. The vulnerability operates at the core level of the operating system where kernel memory management and address space initialization fail to properly secure sensitive information, potentially exposing system internals to unauthorized parties.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability involves the Windows kernel's failure to properly initialize memory addresses during system operations, creating information disclosure opportunities that attackers can exploit to gather sensitive kernel data. This improper initialization allows malicious applications to access memory locations that should remain protected, potentially revealing kernel structures, memory layouts, or other confidential information that could be leveraged for further exploitation. The vulnerability specifically relates to how the kernel manages address space layout and memory allocation, where uninitialized memory regions may contain residual data from previous operations or system states. This flaw operates at the kernel level, making it particularly dangerous as it can provide attackers with insights into system internals that would normally be protected from user-mode applications. The issue is classified under CWE-264, which addresses permissions, privileges, and access controls, specifically within kernel-mode operations where memory management security is paramount. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be achieved through specially crafted applications that take advantage of the kernel's improper memory initialization behavior.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant threat to enterprise security environments where Windows systems are prevalent. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain unauthorized access to systems and potentially escalate privileges to achieve full system compromise. The information disclosure aspect means that attackers can gather intelligence about the target system's memory layout, kernel structures, and other sensitive data that can be used to plan more sophisticated attacks. This vulnerability can be particularly dangerous in environments where multiple Windows versions coexist, as it affects a broad range of operating systems and creates consistent attack vectors across different deployment scenarios. The exploitation can occur without requiring elevated privileges initially, making it an attractive target for attackers looking to establish persistent access or conduct reconnaissance activities. The vulnerability's presence in both client and server operating systems means that organizations must address it across their entire infrastructure, from desktop computers to server environments, creating widespread security implications.
The recommended mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-11853 involve immediate implementation of Microsoft security patches and updates that address the kernel memory initialization flaw. Organizations should prioritize patch management processes to ensure all affected Windows versions receive the necessary security updates, particularly focusing on the Windows 7, 8.1, 10, and Server 2008, 2012, 2016 versions that are vulnerable. Additionally, system administrators should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers privilege escalation through kernel exploits, indicates that defensive measures should include monitoring for unusual kernel-level activities and implementing kernel-mode protection mechanisms. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent the execution of unauthorized applications that could exploit this vulnerability. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify systems that may not have received the necessary patches, while also monitoring for potential exploitation attempts that could indicate active attacks targeting this specific kernel flaw. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing of patches in controlled environments before widespread deployment to ensure system stability and prevent unexpected operational disruptions.