CVE-2025-52438
Summary
by MITRE • 06/17/2025
Rejected reason: Not used
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/26/2026
cve-2023-38107 represents a critical privilege escalation vulnerability affecting microsoft windows operating systems through improper handling of kernel-mode drivers. this flaw exists within the windows kernel executive component where insufficient validation occurs during object handle manipulation processes. the vulnerability allows low-privilege attackers to escalate their privileges to system level access by exploiting a race condition in handle duplication mechanisms. the technical implementation involves manipulation of object manager handles through crafted kernel-mode operations that bypass standard access control checks.
the operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it enables attackers to gain complete system control without requiring physical access or advanced exploitation techniques. attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install persistent backdoors, modify system files, and exfiltrate sensitive data from protected environments. the flaw affects multiple windows versions including windows 10 and windows server 2019, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where these systems are prevalent. security researchers have identified that the vulnerability can be exploited through both local and remote attack vectors, depending on the specific implementation details of the target system.
from a cybersecurity perspective this vulnerability aligns with attack techniques categorized under privilege escalation in the mitre att&ck framework, specifically mapping to techniques such as privilege escalation through kernel exploits and process manipulation. the vulnerability also relates to common weakness enumeration cwes including cwe-284 for improper access control and cwe-362 for race conditions in kernel-level operations. organizations affected by this vulnerability face significant risk of data breaches and system compromise, particularly in environments where default security configurations are not properly enforced.
mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patch deployment through microsoft security updates, as the primary fix addresses the underlying kernel-mode race condition through enhanced handle validation. system administrators should implement additional security controls including kernel mode driver validation, enhanced endpoint protection, and regular security audits to detect potential exploitation attempts. network segmentation and privileged access management controls can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. organizations should also consider implementing behavioral monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous kernel-level activities indicative of privilege escalation attempts. the vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against advanced persistent threats that exploit kernel-level vulnerabilities.