CVE-2015-1701
Published: March 3, 2022
Official Description
An unspecified vulnerability exists in the Win32k.sys kernel-mode driver in Microsoft Windows Server that allows a local attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.
CISA KEV Advisory
Microsoft Win32k Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
An unspecified vulnerability exists in the Win32k.sys kernel-mode driver in Microsoft Windows Server that allows a local attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
An unspecified vulnerability in the Win32k.sys kernel-mode driver in Microsoft Windows Server allows a local attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The high EPSS score of 0.90175 and its presence in CISA's KEV indicate a critical and actively exploited threat.
This vulnerability is actively exploited in the wild, as indicated by its inclusion in CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog.
Apply the latest security updates from Microsoft to address this Win32k.sys vulnerability. Implement least privilege principles to limit the impact of local compromise.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2015-1701 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-2015-1701 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-2015-1701 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