CVE-2020-1310 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists in Windows when the Windows kernel-mode driver fails to properly handle objects in memory, aka 'Win32k Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability'. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2020-1207, CVE-2020-1247, CVE-2020-1251, CVE-2020-1253.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/23/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-1310 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw within the Windows operating system that specifically targets the Windows kernel-mode driver component. This issue resides within the win32k.sys driver which is responsible for managing user-mode graphics operations and system window management functions. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of objects in memory, creating a condition where malicious code can exploit the kernel-mode driver to gain elevated privileges beyond normal user limitations. This flaw operates at the core of Windows security architecture where user-mode applications interact with kernel-mode components through the graphics subsystem.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the win32k.sys driver fails to properly validate or handle memory objects during graphics operations, allowing an attacker to manipulate kernel memory structures. This memory handling failure creates a potential for arbitrary code execution at kernel level, which is the fundamental characteristic of an elevation of privilege vulnerability. The flaw specifically affects the Windows kernel-mode driver's object management routines, where insufficient validation of user-supplied data can lead to memory corruption. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-121, which deals with stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and more specifically relates to CWE-125, out-of-bounds read conditions, as the improper memory handling can result in accessing unauthorized memory regions.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-1310 is severe as it allows a local attacker with standard user privileges to escalate their access rights to SYSTEM level privileges. Once successfully exploited, the attacker gains complete control over the affected system, enabling them to install malicious software, modify system files, access sensitive data, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through legitimate graphics operations, making detection more challenging. Attackers can leverage this flaw through various attack vectors including malicious documents, web pages, or by exploiting other initial access points to gain a foothold before executing the privilege escalation. This vulnerability affects multiple Windows versions including Windows 10, Windows Server 2016, and Windows Server 2019, making it a widespread concern for enterprise environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-1310 primarily involve applying the Microsoft security patches released in the June 2020 Patch Tuesday updates, which address the specific memory handling issues within the win32k.sys driver. Organizations should implement immediate patch management processes to ensure all systems receive the necessary updates. Additionally, security administrators can employ defensive measures such as disabling unnecessary graphics features, implementing application whitelisting policies, and monitoring for suspicious kernel-mode activities. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through kernel exploits, and T1547, which involves establishing persistence through system-level modifications. Network administrators should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous kernel-mode behavior and potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify systems that may be at risk and establish incident response procedures specifically tailored to handle kernel-level privilege escalation attacks.