CVE-2014-1812
Published: November 3, 2021
Official Description
Microsoft Windows Active Directory contains a privilege escalation vulnerability due to the way it distributes passwords that are configured using Group Policy preferences. An authenticated attacker who successfully exploits the vulnerability could decrypt the passwords and use them to elevate privileges on the domain.
CISA KEV Advisory
Microsoft Windows Group Policy Preferences Password Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
Microsoft Windows Active Directory contains a privilege escalation vulnerability due to the way it distributes passwords that are configured using Group Policy preferences. An authenticated attacker who successfully exploits the vulnerability could decrypt the passwords and use them to elevate privileges on the domain.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
This vulnerability in Microsoft Windows Active Directory allows an authenticated attacker to decrypt passwords distributed via Group Policy preferences. This could lead to privilege escalation within the domain. With an EPSS score of 0.80264, exploitation is highly likely, and its inclusion in CISA's KEV confirms active exploitation.
Active exploitation of this vulnerability has been observed in the wild, as confirmed by its presence in CISA's KEV. An authenticated attacker can exploit this remotely.
Review and update Group Policy preferences to ensure passwords are not stored in a recoverable format. Implement strong password policies and regularly audit Active Directory configurations.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2014-1812 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-2014-1812 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-2014-1812 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