CVE-2018-0757 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 information disclosure vulnerability due to the way objects are handled in memory, aka "Windows Kernel Information Disclosure Vulnerability". This CVE is unique from CVE-2018-0810.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2021
The Windows kernel vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-0757 represents a critical information disclosure flaw that affects multiple versions of the windows operating system including windows 7 sp1, windows 8.1, and their respective server editions. This vulnerability resides within the kernel mode components of the operating system where objects are managed in memory, creating a pathway for unauthorized information exposure. The flaw specifically manifests when the kernel handles object references and memory management operations, allowing potential attackers to extract sensitive data from system memory. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it affects both desktop and server operating system variants, spanning from older windows 7 and 2008 r2 releases through to more recent windows 10 versions and windows server 2016. This widespread impact across multiple operating system versions indicates a fundamental issue in the kernel's memory management subsystem that requires immediate attention from system administrators and security professionals.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of object references within the kernel's memory management framework. When the kernel processes object operations, it fails to properly validate or sanitize memory access patterns, creating opportunities for information leakage through side-channel attacks or direct memory reads. The vulnerability is classified under the common weakness enumeration framework as a memory corruption issue, specifically related to improper handling of object references and memory management operations. This flaw enables attackers to potentially extract kernel memory contents including sensitive information such as system credentials, encryption keys, or other confidential data that should remain protected within kernel space. The exploitation requires local system access or a sophisticated remote attack vector that leverages existing privileges to manipulate kernel object handling mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-0757 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the extracted kernel memory contents could provide attackers with critical system information that facilitates further exploitation attempts. Attackers could potentially use the leaked information to bypass security controls, craft more effective attacks against other system components, or develop additional exploit chains targeting the same kernel subsystem. The vulnerability's presence in both client and server operating systems creates a significant risk across enterprise environments where privileged accounts and sensitive data are commonly stored within kernel memory. Security researchers have noted that this vulnerability operates at the kernel level, meaning that successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise if combined with other vulnerabilities or if the attacker can elevate privileges through additional attack vectors. The information disclosure aspect makes this particularly dangerous as it provides attackers with insights into system internals that would otherwise remain hidden from normal operation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-0757 primarily focus on applying microsoft security updates and patches that address the specific kernel memory handling flaw. system administrators should prioritize patching affected systems, particularly those running windows 7, 8.1, 2008 r2, and related server versions that have not yet received the appropriate security updates. organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit potential attack vectors and reduce the impact of successful exploitation attempts. the vulnerability aligns with several attack techniques documented in the mitre att&ck framework, particularly those involving privilege escalation and credential access through kernel-level attacks. additional defensive measures include monitoring for unusual memory access patterns, implementing kernel-mode protection mechanisms, and maintaining comprehensive system monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting and privileged access management controls to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. the vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and proper system hardening practices across all operating system versions to prevent exploitation of similar kernel-level vulnerabilities.