CVE-2019-1267 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

The Microsoft Compatibility Appraiser contains a vulnerability that allows elevation of privilege, specifically affecting a configuration file vulnerable to symbolic link and hard link attacks.

Understanding CVE-2019-1267

What is CVE-2019-1267?

An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists in Microsoft Compatibility Appraiser where a configuration file, with local privileges, is vulnerable to symbolic link and hard link attacks, aka 'Microsoft Compatibility Appraiser Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability'.

The Impact of CVE-2019-1267

This vulnerability can be exploited to elevate privileges on the affected system, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-1267

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Microsoft Compatibility Appraiser allows attackers to escalate their privileges by exploiting a vulnerable configuration file susceptible to symbolic and hard link attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Windows: Versions 7, 8.1, and 10, including various service packs and architectures
Windows Server: Versions 2008 R2, 2012 R2, 2016, 2019, and others

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating symbolic or hard links within the configuration file to gain elevated privileges on the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the necessary security updates provided by Microsoft promptly
Monitor for any unauthorized system access or changes

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict unnecessary access
Regularly review and update security configurations and permissions

Patching and Updates

It is crucial to install the security patches released by Microsoft to address this vulnerability and enhance system security.