CVE-2026-97804 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE • 10/14/2026
Heap-based buffer overflow in HID class driver allows an authorized attacker to elevate privileges locally.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/14/2026
The vulnerability described constitutes a critical security flaw within the Human Interface Device (HID) class driver, specifically manifesting as a heap-based buffer overflow. This type of memory corruption error occurs when data written to a dynamically allocated block on the computer's heap exceeds its allocated boundaries. In the context of HID drivers, which manage communication between input devices such as keyboards, mice, and game controllers and the operating system, this flaw is particularly dangerous because these components operate at high privilege levels within the kernel space. The root cause typically involves insufficient validation of user-supplied data or malformed device reports received from connected peripherals. When an attacker crafts a malicious HID report that triggers this overflow, they can overwrite adjacent memory structures on the heap, potentially gaining control over critical execution flow mechanisms such as function pointers or exception handlers.
From an operational perspective, the ability to execute arbitrary code in kernel mode via local privilege escalation represents a severe threat to system integrity. An authorized attacker who exploits this vulnerability does not require physical access to compromise the entire system; rather, they leverage their existing user account privileges to trigger the flaw through connected hardware or simulated HID interfaces. Once the heap overflow is successfully exploited and control of execution flow is achieved, the attacker can execute code with SYSTEM-level permissions. This effectively bypasses all standard security controls designed for lower-privileged users, allowing them to install programs, view, change, or delete sensitive data, and create new accounts with full administrative rights. The impact extends beyond simple data theft, as it enables persistent backdoors and complete compromise of the host environment.
This vulnerability aligns closely with Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) identifiers such as CWE-122: Heap-based Buffer Overflow and CWE-269: Improper Privilege Management. Furthermore, in terms of tactical classification under the MITRE ATT&CK framework, this exploit falls under Tactic 0003 Persistence or Tactic 0004 Privilege Escalation, specifically leveraging techniques like Local Process Injection (T1055) or Exploitation for Privilege Escalation (T1068). The attack vector is classified as local, meaning the attacker must have some level of authenticated access to the target system prior to exploitation. This distinguishes it from remote code execution vulnerabilities and places it within the realm of insider threats or compromised user accounts seeking lateral movement or deeper system control.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve applying vendor-provided security patches that address the input validation logic within the HID class driver. System administrators should ensure that all operating systems are updated to versions where the heap allocation routines properly check buffer sizes before copying data from external devices. Additionally, implementing strict device control policies can reduce the attack surface by preventing unauthorized or untrusted peripherals from connecting to critical systems. For environments with high security requirements, disabling unused HID interfaces or employing hardware-based restrictions on USB input devices can further mitigate the risk of exploitation. Continuous monitoring for anomalous behavior in kernel memory allocation and privilege changes is also recommended to detect potential exploitation attempts early.