CVE-2020-1475 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists in the way that the srmsvc.dll handles objects in memory. An attacker who successfully exploited the vulnerability could execute code with elevated permissions. To exploit the vulnerability, a locally authenticated attacker could run a specially crafted application. The security update addresses the vulnerability by ensuring the srmsvc.dll properly handles objects in memory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/23/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-1475 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw within the Windows Server Remote Management service component. This vulnerability specifically affects the srmsvc.dll module which is responsible for handling remote management operations in Windows Server environments. The flaw exists in the memory handling mechanisms of this system service, creating a pathway for malicious actors to escalate their privileges and execute code with higher permissions than initially granted. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited by locally authenticated attackers who have access to the system but do not possess administrative privileges, making it a significant threat to enterprise security infrastructure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through improper memory object handling within the srmsvc.dll component. When the service processes certain memory objects, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the data structures, creating opportunities for memory corruption that can be leveraged by attackers. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of "Stack-based Buffer Overflow" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation." The flaw allows an attacker to craft a malicious application that when executed locally on the target system can trigger the memory handling error, leading to arbitrary code execution with elevated privileges. The attack vector requires local authentication but does not necessitate network connectivity or complex external exploitation techniques, making it particularly dangerous in environments where local access might be more readily available.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-1475 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it can potentially compromise entire server environments that rely on the Remote Management service. Systems running affected versions of Windows Server are at risk of being fully compromised if an attacker gains local access, as they can use this vulnerability to gain SYSTEM-level privileges and subsequently access sensitive data, modify system configurations, or establish persistent access. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where Windows Server systems are deployed and where the Remote Management service is enabled, as it provides attackers with a reliable method to escalate their access level without requiring additional attack vectors. The vulnerability also impacts the integrity and availability of the affected systems, as successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise and potential data exfiltration.
Microsoft addressed this vulnerability through a security update that modifies the memory handling routines within the srmsvc.dll module to properly validate and sanitize memory objects before processing them. The fix ensures that the service properly handles memory allocation and deallocation, preventing the conditions that allowed for privilege escalation. Organizations should prioritize applying this update immediately, particularly in environments where local access controls are not strictly enforced or where Windows Server systems are deployed. Security teams should also implement monitoring for suspicious local execution patterns and ensure that the Remote Management service is only enabled on systems where it is absolutely required. The mitigation strategy aligns with the principle of least privilege and follows recommended practices for Windows server hardening as outlined in various cybersecurity frameworks including NIST SP 800-171 and CIS Controls.