CVE-2022-21999
Published: March 25, 2022
Official Description
Microsoft Windows Print Spooler contains an unspecified vulnerability which can allow for privilege escalation.
CISA KEV Advisory
Microsoft Windows Print Spooler Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
Microsoft Windows Print Spooler contains an unspecified vulnerability which can allow for privilege escalation.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
This Microsoft Windows Print Spooler vulnerability allows for privilege escalation. The high EPSS score of 0.71363 indicates a significant likelihood of exploitation, and its inclusion in the KEV catalog confirms it has been actively exploited.
This vulnerability has been actively exploited in the wild, as confirmed by its presence in the KEV catalog. Attackers are leveraging this flaw to escalate privileges on affected systems.
Ensure Microsoft Windows systems are updated with the latest security patches addressing Print Spooler vulnerabilities. Consider disabling the Print Spooler service if it is not essential for the system's function.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2022-21999 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-2022-21999 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-2022-21999 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