CVE-2018-0817 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-2018-0816.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/04/2021
The Windows Graphics Device Interface GDI vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-0817 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw that affects multiple versions of Microsoft Windows operating systems. This vulnerability specifically targets the GDI component responsible for handling graphical operations and object management within the Windows kernel. The flaw manifests in how the system processes and manages graphical objects in memory, creating a pathway for malicious actors to escalate their privileges from standard user level to system level access. The vulnerability impacts Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1 and RT 8.1, Windows Server 2012 and R2, various Windows 10 versions including Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703, and 1709, as well as Windows Server 2016 and Windows Server version 1709. This widespread impact across different Windows versions and server configurations makes the vulnerability particularly concerning for enterprise environments.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through improper handling of graphical objects in memory, specifically within the GDI subsystem. Attackers can leverage this flaw by crafting malicious graphical content that triggers a memory corruption condition when processed by the GDI component. The vulnerability 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 flaw enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially allowing them to gain full system control. The memory handling error occurs during the processing of graphics objects, where insufficient validation leads to buffer overflows or memory corruption that can be exploited to overwrite critical system memory locations. This type of vulnerability typically requires the user to interact with malicious content or be tricked into executing compromised graphical operations, making social engineering a potential attack vector.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-0817 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and persistent access to affected environments. Organizations running vulnerable Windows systems face significant risks including data breaches, lateral movement within networks, and potential establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's presence across multiple Windows versions means that both legacy systems and newer releases remain at risk, complicating remediation efforts. Security teams must consider that this vulnerability could be exploited in targeted attacks against high-value targets, particularly in environments where users may encounter malicious content through email attachments, web browsing, or other common attack vectors. The fact that this CVE is distinct from related vulnerabilities CVE-2018-0815 and CVE-2018-0816 indicates that it represents a unique exploitation pathway that requires specific patching measures.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-0817 primarily focus on implementing timely security updates from Microsoft as part of comprehensive patch management programs. Organizations should prioritize patching affected systems, particularly those running vulnerable Windows versions, and implement additional security controls such as application whitelisting to prevent execution of malicious graphical content. Network segmentation and monitoring for anomalous graphical processing activities can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's nature suggests that standard user access controls and least privilege principles become even more critical in preventing successful exploitation. Security professionals should also consider implementing behavioral monitoring solutions that can detect unusual memory access patterns or graphics processing anomalies that might indicate exploitation attempts. Given the vulnerability's relationship to GDI operations, organizations may want to consider disabling unnecessary graphical features or implementing additional runtime protections for graphics-intensive applications. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should include checks for this specific vulnerability to ensure proper remediation across all affected systems.