CVE-2020-1081 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists when the Windows Printer Service improperly validates file paths while loading printer drivers, aka 'Windows Printer Service Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability'.

Understanding CVE-2020-1081

This CVE identifies an elevation of privilege vulnerability within the Windows Printer Service, impacting various Windows versions and Windows Server.

What is CVE-2020-1081?

CVE-2020-1081 is an elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Windows Printer Service resulting from inadequate validation of file paths during printer driver loading.

The Impact of CVE-2020-1081

The vulnerability could allow an attacker to elevate privileges on a compromised system, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-1081

This section provides details on the vulnerability's description, affected systems, versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability resides in the Windows Printer Service's incorrect handling of file path validation while loading printer drivers, facilitating privilege escalation attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Windows Versions Affected: 7, 8.1, 10 (multiple versions), RT 8.1
Windows Server Versions Affected: 2008, 2008 R2, 2012, 2012 R2, 2016, 2019

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by supplying malicious printer drivers to the service, causing it to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-1081, apply immediate steps and adopt long-term security practices to enhance system protection.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the latest security updates provided by Microsoft for affected systems and versions.
Monitor system logs for unusual printer service activities.
Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict unnecessary access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch system software to prevent future vulnerabilities.
Conduct security audits to identify and remediate potential weaknesses in the system configuration.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches released by Microsoft to mitigate the CVE-2020-1081 vulnerability and enhance system security.