CVE-2019-1132
Published: March 15, 2022
Official Description
A privilege escalation vulnerability exists in Windows when the Win32k component fails to properly handle objects in memory.
CISA KEV Advisory
Microsoft Win32k Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
A privilege escalation vulnerability exists in Windows when the Win32k component fails to properly handle objects in memory.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
This vulnerability allows an attacker to elevate their privileges on a Windows system due to improper handling of memory objects by the Win32k component. With a high EPSS score of 0.35636 and confirmed exploitation in the wild, this is an urgent issue that could lead to full system compromise.
This vulnerability has been actively exploited in the wild and is listed in CISA's KEV catalog, indicating confirmed real-world exploitation.
Apply the latest security updates from Microsoft for Windows to patch the Win32k component. Regularly review and apply security patches to all Windows systems.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2019-1132 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-2019-1132 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-2019-1132 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