CVE-2018-9050 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 0xf100202d.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/17/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9050 resides within Windows Master, specifically version 7.99.13.604, where the WoptiHWDetect.SYS driver component exhibits inadequate input validation behavior. This driver serves as a hardware detection utility within the optimization software suite, but its failure to properly validate input parameters during IOCTL (Input/Output Control) operations creates a significant security weakness that can be exploited by local attackers. The specific IOCTL code 0xf100202d represents a critical interface point where malicious input can trigger system instability, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for system integrity and availability.
The technical flaw manifests in the driver's lack of proper parameter validation mechanisms when processing the specified IOCTL request. When local users submit crafted input values to the WoptiHWDetect.SYS driver through this particular IOCTL interface, the system fails to sanitize or validate these inputs before processing them. This validation gap allows attackers to potentially manipulate memory structures or system resources through malformed input sequences, leading to unpredictable behavior within the kernel space. The vulnerability essentially creates a path for privilege escalation and system compromise through improper input handling, which aligns with CWE-129, Input Validation, and CWE-754, Improper Check for Unusual or Exceptional Conditions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it can potentially lead to system crashes resulting in blue screen of death (BSOD) conditions. Local users with minimal privileges can leverage this weakness to disrupt normal system operations, causing unexpected restarts or system hangs that can result in data loss or service interruptions. Additionally, the unspecified other impacts suggest that this vulnerability might provide a foothold for more sophisticated attacks, potentially enabling privilege escalation or information disclosure. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability could be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1068, Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, or T1490, Inhibit System Recovery, depending on how attackers choose to utilize the instability it creates.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate driver validation improvements and system hardening measures. System administrators should ensure that Windows Master software is updated to versions that address this specific validation issue, as the vendor likely released patches to correct the input handling behavior. Additionally, implementing kernel-mode driver signature enforcement and restricting local user privileges can help reduce the attack surface. Network segmentation and monitoring for unusual IOCTL activity patterns can provide early detection of exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper kernel driver development practices, particularly around input validation and error handling, as specified in Microsoft's Secure Coding Guidelines for Windows Drivers and aligning with industry best practices outlined in the CERT/CC Secure Coding Standards.