#VU11355 Privilege escalation in Windows and Windows Server - CVE-2018-1038

Vulnerability identifier: #VU11355

Vulnerability risk: Low

CVSSv4.0: 7.1 [CVSS:4.0/AV:L/AC:L/AT:N/PR:L/UI:N/VC:H/VI:H/VA:H/SC:N/SI:N/SA:N/E:P/U:Clear]

CVE-ID: CVE-2018-1038

CWE-ID: CWE-264

Exploitation vector: Local

Exploit availability: No

Vulnerable software:
Windows
Operating systems & Components / Operating system
Windows Server
Operating systems & Components / Operating system

Vendor: Microsoft

Description
The vulnerability allows a local attacker to gain elevated privileges on the target system.

The weakness exists due to the failure to protect kernel memory when the Microsoft patch for meltdown is installed. A local attacker can run a specially crafted program and execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM privileges.

Successful exploitation of the vulnerability may result in system compromise.

Mitigation
Install update from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

Windows: 7

Windows Server: 2008 R2

---

External links
https://portal.msrc.microsoft.com/en-US/security-guidance/advisory/CVE-2018-1038

---

Q & A

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

No. This vulnerability can be exploited locally. The attacker should have authentication credentials and successfully authenticate on the system.

Is there known malware, which exploits this vulnerability?

No. We are not aware of malware exploiting this vulnerability. However, proof of concept for this vulnerability is available.