Vulnerability identifier: #VU5575

Vulnerability risk: Medium

CVSSv3.1: 7 [CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H/E:P/RL:O/RC:C]

CVE-ID: CVE-2015-2527

CWE-ID: CWE-264

Exploitation vector: Local

Exploit availability: Yes

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 improper validation and enforcement of integrity levels by Win32k.sys. A local attacker can execute a specially crafted program and gain SYSTEM privileges.

Successful exploitation of the vulnerability may result in full control of the vulnerable system.

Mitigation
Install update from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

Windows: 10, 8.1 - 8.1 RT, 8

Windows Server: 2012 - 2012 R2

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External links
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/security/ms15-097

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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.