CVE-2019-1085 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists in the way that the wlansvc.dll handles objects in memory, aka 'Windows WLAN Service Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability'.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/02/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-1085 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw within the Windows WLAN Service component, specifically manifesting in the wlansvc.dll module. This vulnerability enables attackers to escalate their privileges from standard user level to system level execution, fundamentally compromising the security posture of affected Windows systems. The issue stems from improper handling of memory objects within the wireless local area network service, which operates as a core system component responsible for managing wireless network connections and configurations. The vulnerability affects multiple Windows operating systems including Windows 10, Windows Server 2016, and Windows Server 2019, making it a widespread concern across enterprise and consumer environments.
The technical flaw resides in the memory management practices of the wlansvc.dll library, where insufficient validation occurs when processing certain objects in memory space. This improper object handling creates a condition where malicious code can manipulate memory structures to gain elevated privileges. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121, which addresses 'Stack-based Buffer Overflow', and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation'. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious payloads that trigger the vulnerable memory handling routines, potentially allowing them to execute arbitrary code with system-level privileges. The flaw specifically manifests when the WLAN service processes certain network configuration data, creating an opportunity for privilege escalation attacks that bypass standard Windows security controls.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-1085 is severe and far-reaching, as successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data. Organizations running affected Windows versions become vulnerable to advanced persistent threats where attackers can establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate confidential information, or deploy additional malware payloads. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction since the wlan service operates with elevated privileges, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where wireless connectivity is prevalent. Security researchers have noted that this vulnerability can be leveraged in combination with other attack vectors, potentially enabling attackers to move laterally within networks or establish footholds for more extensive compromise operations. The impact extends beyond individual systems to potentially affect entire network infrastructures where wireless connectivity is integral to operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-1085 primarily focus on applying Microsoft's security patches and updates released in the July 2019 security bulletin. System administrators should prioritize immediate deployment of the relevant Windows updates, particularly KB4503267 for Windows 10 and KB4503271 for Windows Server 2016 and 2019. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential impact of exploitation, while monitoring for unusual wlan service activity may aid in detecting attempted attacks. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary wireless services and implementing strict privilege controls to reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability's classification under the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures database and its mapping to ATT&CK framework techniques emphasize the importance of proactive security measures including regular vulnerability assessments and security awareness training for personnel who might inadvertently trigger exploitation conditions through malicious file execution or network interaction.