External risk intelligence

Windows GDI Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2016-3393

A vulnerability in the Windows Graphics Device Interface allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted website. Exploitation could grant attackers control over affected systems, posing a business risk of data compromise and operational disruption. Affected organizations should identify and remediate i

3Halo Surface Signal

Microsoft Windows 10 1507

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2016-3393

This vulnerability affects the Windows Graphics Device Interface (GDI) component. Exploitation typically requires a user to interact with a crafted website or file. While it is not a server-side service exposed by default, the reliance on user interaction with internet content makes it plausibly reachable in many environments where users browse the web.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

The Windows Graphics Device Interface (GDI) component contains a flaw that could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code. This vulnerability can be triggered when a user visits a specially crafted website. If exploited, attackers could potentially gain control of affected systems.

Vulnerable component: Windows Graphics Device Interface
Core weakness: Improper handling of memory objects
Main business impact: System control by attackers

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability in the Windows Graphics Device Interface allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code. An attacker could leverage this by directing an organization's employee to a specially crafted website. Successful exploitation enables the attacker to gain control over the affected system, leading to potential data compromise and operational disruption.

Exposure via a crafted web page.
Attacker directs user to the site.
User interaction triggers code execution.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

The Graphics Device Interface vulnerability in Microsoft Windows could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code. This could lead to a compromise of affected systems, enabling attackers to take control and potentially access or modify sensitive data. The business risk is significant due to the potential for system takeover and data breaches.

Attackers with moderate skill.
Requires user interaction with a malicious site.
High business risk and urgency.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability in the Windows Graphics Device Interface (GDI) allows remote attackers to execute code by directing users to a malicious website. Successful exploitation could lead to a complete compromise of the affected system, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data and business operations. Understanding which systems are impacted and how to remediate is crucial to mitigating business risk.

Identify affected Windows systems.
Reduce exposure or isolate risk.
Apply vendor fix, verify, and monitor.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Windows Graphics Device Interface (GDI) component?

The Windows Graphics Device Interface (GDI) is a core component of Microsoft Windows responsible for rendering graphics on the screen. It handles tasks like drawing lines, curves, text, and images, and is used by many applications to display visual information. Affecting multiple versions of Windows, this vulnerability involves how GDI manages memory objects.

What kind of weakness does CVE-2016-3393 represent?

CVE-2016-3393 is classified as a remote code execution vulnerability. This means an attacker can trick a user into performing an action, like visiting a malicious website, which then allows the attacker to run their own code on the victim's computer. The root cause involves improper handling of objects in memory by the GDI component.

How can an attacker exploit this CVE-2016-3393 vulnerability?

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by creating a special website designed to trigger the flaw in the Windows Graphics Device Interface. The attacker's primary precondition is to lure a user into visiting this malicious website. The vulnerability is not triggered if the user does not interact with the crafted web page.

Who should care about the Windows GDI vulnerability?

Organizations with employees who browse the internet on Windows systems should be concerned. Since exploitation often requires a user to visit a malicious website, this poses a risk in environments where internet browsing is common. Halo Surface Signal indicates this vulnerability is classified as 'Possible' due to its reliance on user interaction with internet content, making it relevant even if not directly internet-facing.

What is the first step to respond to this threat?

The immediate first step for anyone running affected Windows technology is to identify which systems are running the vulnerable versions. After identification, the priority is to apply the security updates provided by Microsoft to fix the GDI component. Monitoring for any signs of compromise is also essential after applying patches.

References

Written by Nicholas Merritt

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