External risk intelligence

Windows Graphics Component Privilege Escalation Vulnerability.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2023-21823

The Windows Graphics Component has a vulnerability that allows for privilege escalation, potentially impacting system integrity and data confidentiality. Attackers with local, low-level access can exploit this by opening specially crafted documents, leading to unauthorized control of systems. Organizations should prior

1Halo Surface Signal

Integer Overflow

Microsoft Windows 10 1507

before 10.0.10240.19747before 10.0.14393.5717before 10.0.17763.4010before 10.0.19042.2604before 10.0.19044.2604before 10.0.19045.2604before 10.0.22000.1574before 10.0.22621.1265r2

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2023-21823

This vulnerability resides within a local Windows system component. It requires local access to the system to exploit and is not a network-reachable service, interface, or public-facing endpoint.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

The Windows Graphics Component is vulnerable due to an integer overflow weakness. This flaw allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability requires local access but does not need user interaction, enabling an attacker with low privileges to elevate their privileges and execute code.

  • Vulnerable: Windows Graphics Component
  • Weakness: Integer overflow allows code execution
  • Impact: System compromise, data theft, privilege escalation

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

A local attacker can exploit a vulnerability in the Windows Graphics Component. This occurs when a specially crafted document or application is opened by a user with low privileges on an affected system. Successful exploitation allows the attacker to elevate their privileges, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control over the system. This could impact data integrity and confidentiality.

  • Local attacker with low privileges.
  • Triggered by opening a crafted document.
  • Results in privilege escalation.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability affects the Windows Graphics Component. Attackers with local access and lower-level privileges could potentially exploit this to gain higher privileges on the affected system. The potential for compromise of system integrity, confidentiality, and availability exists. Organizations should prioritize addressing this vulnerability.

  • Low skill level required.
  • Local system access needed.
  • High business risk.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

The identified vulnerability in the Windows Graphics Component presents a risk of remote code execution. Organizations should prioritize understanding which systems are affected and take steps to mitigate potential exposure. Applying the vendor-supplied fix and verifying its successful implementation are crucial next steps, followed by ongoing monitoring for any related security incidents.

  • Identify all impacted Windows assets.
  • Limit access to vulnerable systems.
  • Apply vendor updates and validate.
  • Monitor for suspicious activity.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Windows Graphics Component and its function in the operating system?

The Windows Graphics Component, known as GDI, is a fundamental part of Microsoft Windows responsible for rendering graphics. It manages how visual elements like windows, menus, and icons are drawn on the screen and sent to output devices such as printers. GDI handles drawing operations, text rendering, and color management, contributing to the overall user interface and consistent visual display across various hardware.

What specific weakness does CVE-2023-21823 represent and how does it manifest?

CVE-2023-21823 is an integer overflow or wraparound vulnerability, categorized under CWE-190. This weakness occurs when a calculation results in a value exceeding the maximum representable number for its data type. This can lead to unexpected behavior and potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code by manipulating these calculations within the Windows Graphics Component.

How can an attacker exploit CVE-2023-21823, and what is the scope of impact?

An attacker with local access and low privileges can exploit this vulnerability. The attack typically involves a specially crafted document or application that, when opened by a user on an affected system, triggers the weakness. Successful exploitation allows the attacker to elevate their privileges on the system, potentially gaining unauthorized control.

What is the relevance of CVE-2023-21823, and why is it important to address?

This vulnerability is relevant because it allows for privilege escalation on affected Windows systems. An attacker could leverage this to gain higher-level access, compromising system integrity, confidentiality, and availability. Addressing this is crucial to prevent potential data theft, unauthorized modifications, or further system compromise.

What steps should organizations take to respond to this vulnerability?

Organizations should identify all Windows assets affected by this vulnerability. It is critical to apply vendor-provided updates to mitigate the risk. Limiting access to vulnerable systems and continuously monitoring for any suspicious activity post-patching are also recommended practices to ensure comprehensive security.

References