CVE-2018-0746 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The Windows kernel in Windows 8.1 and RT 8.1, Windows Server 2012 and R2, Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703 and 1709, Windows Server 2016 and Windows Server, version 1709 allows an information disclosure vulnerability due to the way memory addresses are handled, aka "Windows Information Disclosure Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2018-0745 and CVE-2018-0747.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/14/2025
The Windows kernel vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-0746 represents a critical information disclosure flaw that affects multiple Windows operating system versions including Windows 8.1, RT 8.1, Windows Server 2012 and R2, Windows 10 versions 1511, 1607, 1703, and 1709, as well as Windows Server 2016 and Windows Server version 1709. This vulnerability specifically manifests in how the kernel handles memory addresses, creating opportunities for unauthorized information exposure that could compromise system security. The flaw operates at the kernel level, making it particularly dangerous as it can potentially expose sensitive memory contents to malicious actors who exploit the vulnerability.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper memory address handling within the Windows kernel components, which allows attackers to potentially read memory locations that should remain protected. This information disclosure occurs through mechanisms that are not properly sanitized or restricted, enabling adversaries to extract potentially sensitive data including system memory contents, kernel structures, or other protected information that could aid in further exploitation attempts. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-200 category of "Information Exposure" and specifically relates to improper handling of memory addresses in kernel space operations. Attackers can leverage this weakness to gather intelligence about system memory layout, which serves as a foundation for more sophisticated attacks including privilege escalation or exploitation of additional vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-0746 extends beyond simple information disclosure as it creates a significant security risk for affected systems. When exploited, this vulnerability enables attackers to gain insights into kernel memory structures, which can facilitate advanced exploitation techniques such as kernel exploit development, privilege escalation, or information gathering for targeted attacks. The vulnerability's presence in multiple Windows versions means that organizations running these operating systems face widespread exposure, particularly in enterprise environments where Windows Server versions are commonly deployed. This information disclosure can be particularly damaging when combined with other vulnerabilities, as the leaked memory addresses provide attackers with critical information needed to craft more effective attacks against the targeted systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-0746 should include immediate deployment of Microsoft security updates and patches released for the affected Windows versions. Organizations should prioritize patch management procedures to ensure all vulnerable systems receive the necessary updates, as Microsoft addressed this vulnerability through the regular security update cycle. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential impact of exploitation attempts, while monitoring for unusual memory access patterns or information disclosure activities can provide early detection of potential attacks. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework places it within the information gathering phase, specifically related to credential access and privilege escalation techniques that rely on information disclosure as a prerequisite for successful exploitation. Security teams should also consider implementing memory protection mechanisms and ensuring that systems are configured with appropriate security settings to minimize the attack surface and reduce the effectiveness of potential exploitation attempts.