CVE-2018-0756 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The Windows kernel in 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-2018-0742, CVE-2018-0809, CVE-2018-0820 and CVE-2018-0843.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-0756 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw within the Windows kernel implementation across multiple Windows 10 and Windows Server versions. This issue affects Windows 10 versions 1511, 1607, 1703, and 1709, along with Windows Server 2016 and Windows Server version 1709, making it a widespread concern affecting both client and server operating systems. The 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 technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the Windows kernel's memory management subsystem where objects are not properly validated or handled during certain operations. This memory handling flaw allows an attacker to manipulate kernel objects in ways that should not be permitted, effectively bypassing the normal security boundaries that separate user-mode processes from kernel-mode operations. The vulnerability specifically relates to how the kernel processes and manages object references in memory, creating opportunities for arbitrary code execution and privilege escalation. This type of flaw falls under the CWE-121 category of "Stack-based Buffer Overflow" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation".
The operational impact of CVE-2018-0756 is severe as successful exploitation enables attackers to gain system-level privileges without requiring elevated access initially. This means that a malicious user with standard user rights could potentially execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges, allowing them to install malware, modify system files, access all user data, and completely compromise the affected system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects multiple Windows versions simultaneously, creating a broad attack surface that makes it attractive to threat actors seeking maximum impact. The fact that this vulnerability is distinct from related CVEs such as CVE-2018-0742, CVE-2018-0809, CVE-2018-0820, and CVE-2018-0843 indicates it represents a unique memory management flaw that requires specific mitigation approaches rather than general security updates.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-0756 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems through Microsoft's security updates, as the vulnerability requires kernel-level modifications to address properly. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit potential attack vectors and monitor for suspicious privilege escalation activities. The Windows kernel security model relies heavily on proper object management and memory protection mechanisms, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for enterprise environments where multiple systems may be simultaneously vulnerable. Security teams should also consider implementing additional monitoring controls around kernel object access patterns and privilege changes to detect potential exploitation attempts. Given the nature of kernel-level vulnerabilities, comprehensive system hardening measures including disabling unnecessary services, implementing strict access controls, and maintaining up-to-date security configurations should be part of the overall defense strategy. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining current security patches and highlights the risks associated with operating systems that have not received timely security updates, as the affected versions represent widely deployed systems that could be targeted by both automated attacks and sophisticated threat actors.