CVE-2018-0809 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The Windows kernel in Windows 10, versions 1703 and 1709, and Windows Server, version 1709 allows an elevation of privilege vulnerability due to the way objects are handled in memory, aka "Windows Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability". This CVE is unique from CVE-2018-0742, CVE-2018-0756, CVE-2018-0820 and CVE-2018-0843.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2021
This vulnerability exists within the Windows kernel implementation of memory object handling in specific Windows 10 and Windows Server versions. The flaw represents a critical elevation of privilege vulnerability that arises from improper memory management during object operations, allowing malicious code to escalate privileges from standard user level to system level access. The vulnerability specifically affects Windows 10 versions 1703 and 1709, as well as Windows Server version 1709, making these systems particularly susceptible to exploitation by attackers seeking unauthorized system access. This issue falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, though the specific implementation involves kernel-level memory corruption during object lifecycle management. The vulnerability is distinct from several related issues including CVE-2018-0742, CVE-2018-0756, CVE-2018-0820, and CVE-2018-0843, each representing different attack vectors within the Windows kernel subsystem.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through improper handling of kernel objects in memory, where insufficient validation of object boundaries leads to memory corruption. Attackers can leverage this flaw by crafting malicious code that manipulates kernel objects in a way that causes the system to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The memory corruption typically manifests during object allocation, deallocation, or reference operations within the kernel's memory management subsystem. This particular vulnerability enables attackers to bypass standard security mechanisms that normally prevent privilege escalation, allowing them to gain SYSTEM-level access to the compromised system. The exploitation process often involves leveraging the kernel's object manager to manipulate memory structures, potentially leading to complete system compromise and persistent access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete control over affected systems. Once exploited, attackers can install malware, modify system files, access sensitive data, and establish persistent backdoors without detection. The vulnerability affects enterprise environments where Windows 10 and Windows Server 1709 systems are deployed, potentially compromising large numbers of endpoints simultaneously. Organizations running these specific Windows versions face significant risk of data breaches, insider threat exploitation, and advanced persistent threat campaigns. The vulnerability's presence in server environments particularly threatens corporate networks, as compromised servers can serve as launch points for lateral movement throughout the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve applying Microsoft security updates and patches released through Windows Update or Microsoft Update Catalog. Organizations should prioritize immediate patch deployment across all affected systems, particularly those running Windows 10 versions 1703 and 1709, and Windows Server version 1709. Additional defensive measures include implementing network segmentation, monitoring for suspicious privilege escalation attempts, and maintaining comprehensive endpoint detection and response capabilities. Security teams should also consider disabling unnecessary services and features that might expose additional attack surfaces. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 for local privilege escalation and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage, making it particularly relevant for threat hunting and incident response activities. Organizations should also review their patch management processes to ensure timely deployment of security updates and maintain awareness of similar vulnerabilities within the Windows kernel subsystem.