CVE-2019-1458
Published: January 10, 2022
Official Description
A privilege escalation vulnerability exists in Windows when the Win32k component fails to properly handle objects in memory, aka 'Win32k EoP.
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, aka 'Win32k EoP.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
This vulnerability in the Windows Win32k component allows for privilege escalation due to improper handling of objects in memory. The high EPSS score of 0.91941 indicates a very high likelihood of exploitation, making this a critical concern. It is confirmed as exploited by CISA.
Active exploitation of this vulnerability has been observed in the wild. This flaw typically requires local access to the system to achieve privilege escalation.
Apply all available security updates for Windows to address this privilege escalation vulnerability. Implement the principle of least privilege for all user accounts.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2019-1458 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-2019-1458 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-2019-1458 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