External risk intelligence

Microsoft Windows Privilege Escalation via USB Device.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2015-1769

A vulnerability in Windows Mount Manager may allow attackers with physical access to execute arbitrary code via a crafted USB device. This could compromise system integrity and data confidentiality.

1Halo Surface Signal

Microsoft Windows 10

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2015-1769

The vulnerability requires physically proximate access to the target system, specifically involving the connection of a crafted USB device. It is not reachable over a network or the public internet.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

Microsoft Windows operating systems contain a flaw in the Mount Manager component that can be exploited. This weakness allows attackers with physical access to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The impact of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized code execution, compromising the integrity and confidentiality of data on the affected systems.

Vulnerable: Mount Manager in Windows
Flaw: Improper handling of symlinks
Impact: Arbitrary code execution

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability allows an attacker to gain control of a system by exploiting how Windows handles symbolic links. An attacker with physical access can connect a specially crafted USB device to a target machine. This device can then trick the system into executing arbitrary code, leading to a compromise of the system.

Physical access to the system is required.
Attacker connects a crafted USB device.
Triggering the symbolic link handling results in code execution.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability could allow attackers with physical access to execute arbitrary code on affected Windows systems. The Mount Manager component mishandles symbolic links, enabling the execution of malicious code through a crafted USB device.

Attackers need physical access.
Attackers need to connect a USB.
Business risk is high.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability in Microsoft Windows Mount Manager could allow physically proximate attackers to execute arbitrary code. The issue arises from improper handling of symbolic links, which can be exploited by connecting a crafted USB device. Organizations should prioritize actions to identify and mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability.

Find affected systems.
Reduce exposure or isolate risk.
Fix, verify, and monitor.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Mount Manager in Microsoft Windows and what is it used for?

The Mount Manager is a core component within Microsoft Windows operating systems. It is responsible for managing how storage volumes and their file systems are mounted and made accessible to the user and applications. Essentially, it handles the process of assigning drive letters or mount points to connected storage devices so that the operating system can interact with them.

How does CVE-2015-1769 allow for privilege escalation in Windows?

CVE-2015-1769 is classified as a "symlink (symbolic link) race condition" vulnerability. The Mount Manager improperly handles symbolic links, which are special file types that act as pointers to other files or directories. An attacker can exploit this weakness by connecting a specially crafted USB device that manipulates these symbolic links, ultimately allowing them to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.

What are the preconditions for an attacker to exploit this CVE in Windows?

To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker must have physical access to the target Windows machine. They need to be able to connect a malicious USB device directly to the computer. The vulnerability is not triggered by remote network access or by simply interacting with the system through normal user operations; direct physical interaction with a crafted device is required.

Who should be concerned about CVE-2015-1769 and its potential impact?

Organizations should be concerned if they have any Windows systems that could be physically accessed by unauthorized individuals. According to Halo Surface Signal analysis, this vulnerability is classified as internal, meaning it requires physical access and is not directly exposed to the internet. This makes it a concern for environments where physical security might be a consideration, such as shared workstations or public-facing terminals.

What is the first step for organizations running affected Windows technology?

The immediate first step for organizations running affected Windows technology is to identify all systems that could be vulnerable. This involves inventorying their Microsoft Windows installations to determine which versions and configurations are present. Once identified, they should consult vendor guidance for appropriate mitigation or remediation actions to address the security risk.

References

Written by Nicholas Merritt

External-surface CVE analysis and Halo Surface Signal prioritization for Halo Threat Intelligence.