CVE-2019-0887 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in Remote Desktop Services - formerly known as Terminal Services - when an authenticated attacker abuses clipboard redirection, aka 'Remote Desktop Services Remote Code Execution Vulnerability'.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/07/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-0887 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within Microsoft Remote Desktop Services, formerly known as Terminal Services. This vulnerability specifically exploits the clipboard redirection functionality that allows data to be shared between local and remote desktop sessions. The flaw enables authenticated attackers to leverage this legitimate feature for malicious purposes, creating a dangerous attack vector that can be exploited from remote locations without requiring additional privileges beyond initial authentication.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of clipboard data within the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) stack. When clipboard redirection is enabled, the system processes data that flows between local and remote sessions without adequate sanitization measures. Attackers can craft malicious clipboard content that, when processed by the target system, triggers arbitrary code execution. This flaw operates at the application layer and can be exploited through RDP connections, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where RDP is commonly used for remote administration. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflows, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage in remote access scenarios.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-0887 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it can serve as a foundation for broader compromise within network environments. Once an attacker gains execution privileges through this vulnerability, they can establish persistence mechanisms, escalate privileges, and move laterally throughout the network. The authenticated nature of the attack means that attackers need valid credentials, but these are often obtained through credential theft, phishing, or other initial compromise techniques. Organizations that rely heavily on RDP for remote access are particularly vulnerable, as this attack vector can be exploited without requiring network-level access or additional exploitation tools. The vulnerability affects multiple Windows versions including Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and various server editions, making it a widespread concern across enterprise infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-0887 should prioritize immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates, which address the underlying clipboard redirection validation issues. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit RDP access to trusted networks and users, while disabling clipboard redirection where possible. Security monitoring should focus on unusual RDP connection patterns and clipboard data processing activities. Organizations should also implement multi-factor authentication for RDP access, disable unnecessary RDP services, and regularly audit RDP usage within their environments. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of validating all user-supplied data within remote access protocols and highlights the need for defense-in-depth strategies that protect against credential compromise and unauthorized remote access attempts.