CVE-2020-1111 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists when Windows improperly handles calls to Clipboard Service, aka 'Windows Clipboard Service Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability'. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2020-1121, CVE-2020-1165, CVE-2020-1166.

Understanding CVE-2020-1111

This CVE highlights a specific elevation of privilege vulnerability in Windows systems.

What is CVE-2020-1111?

CVE-2020-1111 is an elevation of privilege vulnerability that arises due to improper handling of calls to the Clipboard Service in Windows.

The Impact of CVE-2020-1111

The vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially resulting in full system compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-1111

This section provides technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from the mishandling of calls to Clipboard Service in Windows systems.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following systems and versions are affected:

Windows 10 Version 1809 for 32-bit Systems
Windows 10 Version 1809 for x64-based Systems
Windows 10 Version 1809 for ARM64-based Systems
Windows Server 2019
Windows Server 2019 (Core installation)
Windows 10 Version 1909 for 32-bit Systems
Windows 10 Version 1909 for x64-based Systems
Windows 10 Version 1909 for ARM64-based Systems
Windows Server, version 1909 (Server Core installation)
Windows 10 Version 1903 for 32-bit Systems
Windows 10 Version 1903 for x64-based Systems
Windows 10 Version 1903 for ARM64-based Systems
Windows Server, version 1903 (Server Core installation)

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker to gain elevated privileges by manipulating the Clipboard Service.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to mitigate the vulnerability and prevent exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches immediately after testing.
Review and restrict access to the affected Clipboard Service.
Monitor Clipboard Service activities for suspicious behavior.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to limit system access.
Regularly update systems with security patches and fixes.
Conduct thorough security assessments and audits to identify vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for updates and security advisories from Microsoft.
Install security updates as soon as they are released to mitigate the risk of exploitation.