CVE-2017-11880 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, Windows Server 2012 and R2, Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, and 1703, and Windows Server 2016 allows an attacker to run a specially crafted application and obtain information to further compromise the user's system due to the Windows kernel improperly initializing objects in memory, aka "Windows Information Disclosure Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2017-11831.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/23/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-11880 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within the Windows kernel across multiple operating system versions including Windows 7 SP1 through Windows 10 version 1703 and their respective server editions. This vulnerability stems from improper object initialization within kernel memory management, creating a pathway for attackers to extract sensitive information that could facilitate further compromise of affected systems. The flaw specifically affects the Windows kernel's handling of memory objects during initialization processes, potentially exposing kernel memory contents to unauthorized access.
This vulnerability operates at the kernel level, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited to bypass standard security mechanisms and access privileged system information. The improper initialization of objects in memory creates information disclosure channels that attackers can leverage to gather kernel addresses, system structures, and other sensitive data that could be used for subsequent exploitation techniques. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-200, which addresses "Information Exposure" and specifically relates to improper initialization of objects that can lead to information leakage. The attack vector requires a specially crafted application that can trigger the vulnerable code path, making it a local privilege escalation or information disclosure vulnerability that can be chained with other exploits.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the leaked kernel memory information can be instrumental in developing more sophisticated attacks. Attackers can use the disclosed information to perform address space layout randomization (ASLR) bypass techniques, which are critical for modern exploit development. The vulnerability affects a broad range of Windows versions and editions, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where multiple system types may be present. Organizations running affected systems face increased risk of privilege escalation attacks, as the leaked information can be used to circumvent security features designed to protect kernel memory. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework would fall under T1059 for command and script interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, as attackers can leverage the information disclosure to craft more effective exploitation payloads.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-11880 primarily focus on applying Microsoft security updates as released through the Windows Update mechanism. System administrators should prioritize patching affected systems immediately, as the vulnerability is actively exploited in the wild. Additional defensive measures include implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of untrusted applications that could trigger the vulnerability. Network segmentation and monitoring for suspicious application execution patterns can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing kernel-mode exploit protection mechanisms and monitoring for unusual memory access patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper kernel memory management and initialization practices, highlighting the need for comprehensive security testing of kernel components to prevent similar issues in the future.