CVE-2017-0263
Published: February 10, 2022
Official Description
Microsoft Win32k contains a privilege escalation vulnerability due to the Windows kernel-mode driver failing to properly handle objects in memory.
CISA KEV Advisory
Microsoft Win32k Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
Microsoft Win32k contains a privilege escalation vulnerability due to the Windows kernel-mode driver failing to properly handle objects in memory.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
A privilege escalation vulnerability exists in Microsoft Win32k due to improper handling of objects in memory by the Windows kernel-mode driver. The high EPSS score and confirmed exploitation indicate this is an actively exploited vulnerability that could allow attackers to gain elevated privileges.
This vulnerability is actively exploited in the wild and is included in CISA's KEV catalog. The kernel-mode driver flaw makes it a critical privilege escalation vector.
Apply the latest security updates for Microsoft Windows to address this Win32k privilege escalation vulnerability. Ensure systems are regularly patched and consider implementing exploit mitigation technologies.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2017-0263 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-2017-0263 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-2017-0263 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