CVE-2020-1142: Windows GDI Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists in the way that the Windows Graphics Device Interface (GDI) handles objects in memory, aka 'Windows GDI Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability'.
Other sources
An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists in the way that the Windows Graphics Device Interface (GDI) handles objects in memory. An attacker who successfully exploited this vulnerability could run arbitrary code in kernel mode. An attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights. To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker would first have to log on to the system. An attacker could then run a specially crafted application that could exploit the vulnerability and take control of an affected system. The update addresses the vulnerability by correcting how GDI handles objects in memory and by preventing instances of unintended user-mode privilege elevation.
— Microsoft
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade to a fixed release to a version that resolves this vulnerability.
Patch KB4556799 - Upgrade
Upgrade to a fixed release to a version that resolves this vulnerability.
Patch KB4556812 - Upgrade
Upgrade to a fixed release to a version that resolves this vulnerability.
Patch KB4551853 - Upgrade
Upgrade to a fixed release to a version that resolves this vulnerability.
Patch KB4556807
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of access does an attacker need to exploit this issue?
The attacker must first be able to log on to the affected system and run a specially crafted application. The CVSS vector identifies this as local attack access with low privileges required and no user interaction.
What could an attacker do after successful exploitation?
Successful exploitation could allow arbitrary code execution in kernel mode. An attacker could install programs, view, modify, or delete data, and create accounts with full user rights.
Which systems are listed as affected?
The listed software includes Microsoft Windows 10, Microsoft Windows Server 2016, Microsoft Windows Server 2019, and Microsoft Windows Server.
What is the remediation described for this vulnerability?
Apply the security update that corrects how GDI handles objects in memory and prevents unintended user-mode privilege elevation.