CVE-2017-8490 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The kernel in Microsoft Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2, Windows RT 8.1, Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703, and Windows Server 2016 allows an authenticated attacker to obtain information via a specially crafted application. aka "Windows Kernel Information Disclosure Vulnerability," a different vulnerability than CVE-2017-8492, CVE-2017-8491, CVE-2017-8489, CVE-2017-8488, CVE-2017-8485, CVE-2017-8483, CVE-2017-8482, CVE-2017-8480, CVE-2017-8479, CVE-2017-8478, CVE-2017-8476, CVE-2017-8474, CVE-2017-8469, CVE-2017-8462, CVE-2017-0300, CVE-2017-0299, and CVE-2017-0297.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-8490 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within the Windows kernel operating system components. This weakness affects multiple versions of Microsoft Windows including server and client operating systems, creating a significant security risk for organizations running these platforms. The vulnerability specifically resides in the kernel mode execution environment where legitimate system processes operate with elevated privileges, making it particularly dangerous for attackers seeking to escalate their privileges or extract sensitive system information. The flaw enables an authenticated attacker to obtain information that could otherwise remain protected within the kernel space, potentially revealing system internals that could aid in further exploitation attempts. According to the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog, this vulnerability maps to CWE-200, which describes the exposure of sensitive information to an unauthorized actor, and aligns with the ATT&CK framework's information gathering techniques where adversaries collect system information to plan subsequent attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through a specially crafted application that exploits a flaw in how the Windows kernel handles certain memory operations or system calls. While the exact technical mechanism is not fully detailed in the public CVE description, the nature of kernel-level information disclosure typically involves improper validation of input parameters or insufficient access controls within kernel functions. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by running a malicious application that triggers specific kernel routines, potentially causing the kernel to leak information about memory layouts, system structures, or other sensitive data. The authenticated requirement means that an attacker must first establish a foothold on the system through legitimate user credentials or other initial compromise methods before attempting to exploit this specific vulnerability. This authentication requirement does not diminish the severity of the issue, as it still provides attackers with valuable information that could be used to refine their attack vectors.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-8490 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the leaked kernel information can serve as a foundation for more sophisticated attacks. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability gains knowledge about the target system's internal workings, potentially including memory addresses, kernel module structures, or other data that could be used to bypass security mechanisms or craft more effective exploits. The vulnerability affects a broad range of Windows operating systems, making it particularly attractive to threat actors who seek to maximize their attack surface. Organizations running affected versions of Windows may experience reduced security posture, as attackers can use the leaked information to develop more targeted attacks against specific system components. The presence of this vulnerability in both server and client operating systems means that enterprise networks could be compromised at multiple points, potentially allowing attackers to move laterally within the network once they have obtained sufficient information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-8490 primarily focus on applying Microsoft security updates and patches as soon as they become available. Microsoft released security bulletins addressing this vulnerability in their regular update cycles, and organizations should prioritize installing these patches to eliminate the risk. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. System administrators should also consider monitoring for suspicious application behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly around kernel-level operations or information gathering activities. The vulnerability's presence in multiple Windows versions emphasizes the importance of comprehensive patch management programs and regular security assessments. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security controls such as application whitelisting, user access controls, and privileged account management to reduce the attack surface and prevent unauthorized users from running potentially malicious applications that could exploit this vulnerability. Security teams should also maintain updated threat intelligence feeds to monitor for any emerging exploitation techniques related to this vulnerability.