CVE-2018-0742 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The Windows kernel in Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1 and RT 8.1, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows Server 2012 and R2, Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703 and 1709, Windows Server 2016 and Windows Server, version 1709 allows an elevation of privilege vulnerability due to the way objects are handled in memory, aka "Windows Kernel Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability". This CVE is unique from CVE-2018-0756. CVE-2018-0809, CVE-2018-0820 and CVE-2018-0843.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2021
The Windows kernel vulnerability described in CVE-2018-0742 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw affecting multiple Windows operating system versions including Windows 7 SP1 through Windows 10 version 1709, along with various Server editions. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of objects within kernel memory management, creating a pathway for malicious actors to escalate their privileges from standard user level to SYSTEM level access. The flaw specifically manifests in how the kernel manages object references and memory allocation during certain operations, allowing attackers to manipulate kernel objects in ways that should not be permitted under normal security boundaries. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the kernel level where any compromise directly translates to complete system control, making it a prime target for sophisticated attack campaigns.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a memory management flaw that occurs when the Windows kernel processes certain object references and memory structures. Attackers can exploit this by crafting specific inputs or operations that cause the kernel to improperly handle object references, potentially leading to memory corruption or unauthorized access to kernel resources. This type of vulnerability typically falls under CWE-119 Improper Access to Memory and is closely related to memory safety issues that have been extensively documented in the cybersecurity community. The attack surface is broad due to the fundamental nature of kernel object handling, affecting all supported Windows versions mentioned in the CVE description. The vulnerability is distinct from several other related CVEs including CVE-2018-0756, CVE-2018-0809, CVE-2018-0820, and CVE-2018-0843, indicating it represents a unique exploitation vector that requires specific defensive measures beyond standard patching approaches.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-0742 extends far beyond simple privilege escalation, as successful exploitation enables attackers to gain complete control over affected systems. Once elevated to SYSTEM level, malicious actors can access all system resources, modify critical system files, install persistent backdoors, and extract sensitive data without detection. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where users may have standard accounts but require elevated privileges for legitimate business operations. The attack vector often involves user interaction through malicious software or web-based exploits, making it difficult to defend against without proper patch management. Organizations running affected Windows versions face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within networks. The vulnerability's presence in both client and server operating systems creates widespread exposure across different computing environments, from desktop workstations to server infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-0742 primarily focus on immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's regular security updates, which address the underlying kernel memory handling flaw. Organizations should prioritize patching across all affected Windows versions, including Windows 7, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows 10 versions 1511 through 1709, and corresponding server editions. Additional defensive measures include implementing application whitelisting policies, monitoring for unusual kernel activity, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments to identify systems that may have been compromised. Network segmentation and privilege minimization can help reduce the potential impact of successful exploitation, while endpoint detection and response solutions can provide visibility into suspicious kernel-level activities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting Windows kernel objects and memory management functions. Organizations should also consider implementing security awareness training to reduce the risk of social engineering attacks that might leverage this vulnerability, as user interaction remains a common exploitation pathway.