CVE-2018-8406
Published: March 28, 2022
Official Description
An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists when the DirectX Graphics Kernel (DXGKRNL) driver improperly handles objects in memory.
CISA KEV Advisory
Microsoft DirectX Graphics Kernel Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists when the DirectX Graphics Kernel (DXGKRNL) driver improperly handles objects in memory.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
This elevation of privilege vulnerability in the DirectX Graphics Kernel (DXGKRNL) driver arises from improper memory handling, allowing an attacker to gain higher system privileges. With a high EPSS score of 0.49990 and its presence in CISA's KEV, this flaw is a significant threat that is actively being exploited.
This vulnerability is actively exploited in the wild and is listed in CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog. Exploitation typically requires local access or another vulnerability to achieve initial access.
Apply the latest security updates for the DirectX Graphics Kernel (DXGKRNL) driver to address this memory handling flaw. Ensure all system drivers are kept up-to-date to prevent privilege escalation.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2018-8406 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-2018-8406 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.
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (1)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2018-8406 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