CVE-2024-49114 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE • 12/12/2024
Windows Cloud Files Mini Filter Driver Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/12/2024
This vulnerability exists in the Windows Cloud Files Mini Filter Driver component which operates at the kernel level to handle cloud storage integration functionalities. The flaw allows local attackers with standard user privileges to escalate their access rights and gain elevated system privileges through improper validation of input parameters within the filter driver's processing routines. The vulnerability stems from insufficient boundary checks and validation mechanisms when handling specific file system operations that traverse through the mini filter driver interface, creating a path for privilege escalation attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the exploitation of memory corruption patterns within the kernel-mode driver code where user-supplied data is processed without adequate sanitization. Attackers can craft malicious file operations or trigger specific sequences that cause the driver to improperly handle memory allocations or pointer references, leading to arbitrary code execution in kernel context. This type of vulnerability typically maps to CWE-121 which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, though the actual implementation may involve heap-based memory corruption patterns. The underlying issue demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate memory management within the driver's operational boundaries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides attackers with a direct pathway to bypass standard Windows security controls and elevate their privileges from user level to system level access. Once successfully exploited, an attacker gains complete control over the affected system including the ability to install malicious software, modify system configurations, access sensitive data, and potentially establish persistence mechanisms. The vulnerability affects systems running various Windows versions including server and client operating systems that utilize cloud storage integration features, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where cloud synchronization services are commonly deployed.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patch deployment from Microsoft as the primary defense mechanism, alongside network segmentation to limit potential attack vectors and monitoring for anomalous file system activities. System administrators should implement least privilege principles and regularly audit cloud storage configurations to minimize exposure windows. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques with specific relevance to T1068 which describes "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" and T1547 which covers "Registry Run Keys / Startup Folder' as potential exploitation methods. Additional protective measures include enabling Windows Defender Application Control policies, configuring driver signature enforcement, and implementing comprehensive endpoint detection and response solutions to monitor for suspicious kernel-mode activities that might indicate exploitation attempts.