CVE-2009-1123
Published: March 3, 2022
Official Description
The kernel in Microsoft Windows does not properly validate changes to unspecified kernel objects, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted application.
CISA KEV Advisory
Microsoft Windows Improper Input Validation Vulnerability
The kernel in Microsoft Windows does not properly validate changes to unspecified kernel objects, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted application.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
The Microsoft Windows kernel improperly validates changes to unspecified kernel objects, allowing local users to gain elevated privileges. This high-severity flaw, with an EPSS score of 0.04295 and inclusion in CISA's KEV, indicates a significant and urgent risk of active exploitation.
This vulnerability is actively exploited in the wild, as confirmed by its presence in CISA's KEV catalog. Exploitation requires local access to the system via a crafted application.
Users should apply the latest security updates for Microsoft Windows to address this kernel privilege escalation vulnerability. Ensure all applications are from trusted sources.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2009-1123 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
CISA has added CVE-2009-1123 to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. U.S. federal agencies are required to patch this within the mandated timeframe, and all organizations should treat remediation as urgent.
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (1)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2009-1123 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
- !CISA KEV: Federal agencies must patch per BOD 22-01 timeline
- !Active exploitation confirmed — treat as P1