Privilege Escalation Vulnerability in Microsoft Windows Versions
CVE-2010-0232

7.8HIGH

Key Information:

Vendor

Microsoft

Vendor
CVE Published:
21 January 2010

Badges

👾 Exploit Exists🟡 Public PoC🟣 EPSS 73%🦅 CISA Reported

What is CVE-2010-0232?

This vulnerability exists in various versions of Microsoft Windows. It arises when access to 16-bit applications is enabled on a 32-bit x86 platform, due to improper validation of certain BIOS calls. Local users can exploit this flaw by manipulating the VDM_TIB data structure within the Thread Environment Block (TEB). By invoking the NtVdmControl function to initiate the Windows Virtual DOS Machine (NTVDM) subsystem, users may trigger exceptions that are not handled correctly, leading to potential privilege escalation. This vulnerability highlights the critical need for security measures in legacy application environments.

CISA has reported CVE-2010-0232

CISA provides regional cyber and physical services to support security and resilience across the United States. CISA monitor the most dangerious vulnerabilities and have identifed CVE-2010-0232 as being exploited but is not known by the CISA to be used in ransomware campaigns. This is subject to change at pace

The CISA's recommendation is: Apply updates per vendor instructions.

Exploit Proof of Concept (PoC)

PoC code is written by security researchers to demonstrate the vulnerability can be exploited. PoC code is also a key component for weaponization which could lead to ransomware.

References

EPSS Score

73% chance of being exploited in the next 30 days.

CVSS V3.1

Score:
7.8
Severity:
HIGH
Confidentiality:
High
Integrity:
High
Availability:
High
Attack Vector:
Local
Attack Complexity:
Low
Privileges Required:
Low
User Interaction:
None
Scope:
Unchanged

Timeline

  • 🟡

    Public PoC available

  • 👾

    Exploit known to exist

  • 🦅

    CISA Reported

  • Vulnerability published

  • Vulnerability Reserved

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