CVE-2018-0816 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The Windows Graphics Device Interface (GDI) in Microsoft Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 7 SP1, 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 elevation of privilege vulnerability due to the way objects are handled in memory, aka "Windows GDI Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability". This CVE is unique from CVE-2018-0815 and CVE-2018-0817.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/04/2021
The Windows Graphics Device Interface GDI vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-0816 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw within Microsoft's operating system ecosystem. This vulnerability specifically affects multiple Windows versions including server and client operating systems from Windows Server 2008 through Windows 10 versions 1709, creating a widespread attack surface that impacts organizations across various deployment scenarios. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of objects within memory management structures, particularly within the graphics subsystem that processes graphical operations and rendering tasks. The flaw manifests when the GDI component processes certain graphical objects, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited by malicious actors to gain elevated privileges on affected systems. This vulnerability operates at a fundamental level within the Windows kernel, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged to bypass standard security controls and execute arbitrary code with system-level privileges.
The technical exploitation of CVE-2018-0816 involves manipulating GDI object handling mechanisms to trigger memory corruption through specific graphical operations or rendering sequences. Attackers can craft malicious graphical content or leverage existing applications that utilize GDI functions to manipulate memory layout and execute code within the context of the Windows kernel. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and specifically relates to memory management flaws in kernel-mode components. This type of vulnerability typically occurs when the GDI subsystem fails to properly validate object boundaries or when it improperly handles memory allocation and deallocation processes during graphical rendering operations. The exploitation process often involves creating specific GDI objects that, when processed by the vulnerable code path, cause memory corruption that can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code. The attack vector commonly involves user interaction through malicious documents, applications, or web content that triggers the vulnerable GDI code path during normal graphical operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-0816 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential system compromise and persistent access for attackers. Organizations running affected Windows versions face significant risk as this vulnerability can be exploited remotely or locally to gain SYSTEM-level privileges, enabling attackers to install malware, modify system files, establish persistence mechanisms, and access sensitive data across the compromised systems. The vulnerability's presence in both server and client operating systems creates a substantial risk for enterprise environments where server systems often operate with elevated privileges and contain critical infrastructure data. Security teams must consider that exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to complete system compromise, making it a high-priority target for remediation efforts. The vulnerability's impact is particularly severe in environments where users have administrative privileges or where systems are not regularly updated, as these conditions provide attackers with easier paths to exploitation and privilege escalation. Additionally, the vulnerability's presence in multiple Windows versions means that organizations must implement comprehensive patch management strategies to address all affected systems simultaneously.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-0816 should include immediate implementation of Microsoft security patches and updates, as the vulnerability has been addressed through official security updates released by Microsoft. Organizations should prioritize patch deployment across all affected Windows versions, particularly focusing on server systems that may be exposed to external threats. System administrators should implement additional security controls such as disabling unnecessary graphical rendering capabilities, restricting user privileges, and monitoring for anomalous graphical processing activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can help reduce the attack surface by limiting the potential exploitation vectors. Security monitoring should focus on identifying unusual GDI object creation patterns or memory allocation behaviors that could indicate attempted exploitation. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation', indicates that defensive measures should include monitoring for privilege escalation activities and implementing least privilege access controls. Organizations should also consider implementing exploit prevention technologies and ensuring that all Windows systems are maintained with current security updates to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future.