CVE-2018-9049 in Windows Master
Summary
by MITRE
In Windows Master (aka Windows Optimization Master) 7.99.13.604, the driver file (WoptiHWDetect.SYS) allows local users to cause a denial of service (BSOD) or possibly have unspecified other impact because of not validating input values from IOCtl 0xf1002833.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/17/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9049 resides within Windows Master software version 7.99.13.604, specifically targeting the WoptiHWDetect.SYS driver component. This driver operates at the kernel level and interfaces with user-mode applications through Windows I/O control codes, making it a critical attack surface for privilege escalation and system instability. The flaw manifests when the driver fails to properly validate input parameters received through IOCTL 0xf1002833, a specific control code that enables communication between user applications and the kernel driver. This lack of input validation creates a dangerous condition where malicious or malformed input can be directly processed by the driver without proper sanitization or bounds checking. The vulnerability represents a classic buffer overflow scenario, though it manifests as a denial of service condition rather than arbitrary code execution, as the input validation failure leads to system crashes or blue screen of death conditions.
The technical impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system crashes, as it demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the driver's security architecture. When local users send crafted input data through the specified IOCTL code, the driver processes these values without proper validation, potentially causing memory corruption that results in kernel-level instability. The Windows Optimization Master software, which typically provides system optimization utilities, includes this driver to detect hardware components and manage system resources. However, the absence of proper input validation creates an opportunity for attackers to exploit this weakness, potentially leading to system-wide denial of service conditions that could affect critical system functions. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which describes improper validation of input boundaries, and represents a failure in implementing proper input sanitization and validation mechanisms at the kernel level.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-9049 is significant for systems running the affected software, particularly in enterprise environments where system stability is paramount. Local users with access to the system can trigger system crashes at will, potentially disrupting critical business operations or service availability. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows for remote code execution potential through privilege escalation pathways, as demonstrated by various attack techniques documented in the ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation tactics. System administrators may experience frequent system instability, requiring regular restarts and potentially leading to data loss or service interruptions. The vulnerability affects systems where Windows Optimization Master is installed, which could include both desktop and server environments, making it a widespread concern for organizations that have not patched or removed the affected software.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate software removal or patching of the Windows Optimization Master application. System administrators should conduct thorough inventory checks to identify all systems running the affected software and implement remediation measures. The recommended approach includes uninstalling the software entirely, as the driver component cannot be effectively patched without removing the entire application. Additionally, implementing proper input validation at the kernel level should be enforced through system hardening measures and privilege separation. Network segmentation and user access controls should be strengthened to limit local user privileges and reduce the attack surface. Organizations should also monitor for similar vulnerabilities in other third-party system optimization tools and implement regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar issues. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper driver security practices and input validation, particularly in kernel-mode components that handle user input, as these components represent the most critical security boundaries in operating system architecture.