Security Bulletin
Microsoft Security Bulletin MS13-027 - Important
Vulnerabilities in Kernel-Mode Drivers Could Allow Elevation Of Privilege (2807986)
Published: March 12, 2013 | Updated: July 09, 2013
Version: 1.2
General Information
Executive Summary
This security update resolves three privately reported vulnerabilities in Microsoft Windows. These vulnerabilities could allow elevation of privilege if an attacker gains access to a system.
This security update is rated Important for all supported releases of Microsoft Windows. For more information, see the subsection, Affected and Non-Affected Software, in this section.
The security update addresses the vulnerabilities by by correcting the way that a Windows kernel-mode driver handles objects in memory. For more information about the vulnerabilities, see the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) subsection for the specific vulnerability entry under the next section, Vulnerability Information.
Recommendation. Most customers have automatic updating enabled and will not need to take any action because this security update will be downloaded and installed automatically. Customers who have not enabled automatic updating need to check for updates and install this update manually. For information about specific configuration options in automatic updating, see Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 294871.
For administrators and enterprise installations, or end users who want to install this security update manually, Microsoft recommends that customers apply the update at the earliest opportunity using update management software, or by checking for updates using the Microsoft Update service.
See also the section, Detection and Deployment Tools and Guidance, later in this bulletin.
Knowledge Base Article
| Knowledge Base Article | 2807986 |
|---|---|
| File information | Yes |
| SHA1/SHA2 hashes | Yes |
| Known issues | Yes |
Affected and Non-Affected Software
The following software have been tested to determine which versions or editions are affected. Other versions or editions are either past their support life cycle or are not affected. To determine the support life cycle for your software version or edition, see Microsoft Support Lifecycle.
Affected Software
| Operating System | Maximum Security Impact | Aggregate Severity Rating | Updates Replaced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows XP | |||
| Windows XP Service Pack 3 (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows XP Professional x64 Edition Service Pack 2 (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Server 2003 | |||
| Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 2 (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Server 2003 x64 Edition Service Pack 2 (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Server 2003 with SP2 for Itanium-based Systems (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Vista | |||
| Windows Vista Service Pack 2 (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Vista x64 Edition Service Pack 2 (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Server 2008 | |||
| Windows Server 2008 for 32-bit Systems Service Pack 2 (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Server 2008 for x64-based Systems Service Pack 2 (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Server 2008 for Itanium-based Systems Service Pack 2 (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows 7 | |||
| Windows 7 for 32-bit Systems (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows 7 for 32-bit Systems Service Pack 1 (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows 7 for x64-based Systems (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows 7 for x64-based Systems Service Pack 1 (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 | |||
| Windows Server 2008 R2 for x64-based Systems (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 for x64-based Systems Service Pack 1 (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 for Itanium-based Systems (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 for Itanium-based Systems Service Pack 1 (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows 8 | |||
| Windows 8 for 32-bit Systems (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows 8 for 64-bit Systems (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Server 2012 | |||
| Windows Server 2012 (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Server Core installation option | |||
| Windows Server 2008 for 32-bit Systems Service Pack 2 (Server Core installation) (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Server 2008 for x64-based Systems Service Pack 2 (Server Core installation) (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 for x64-based Systems (Server Core installation) (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 for x64-based Systems Service Pack 1 (Server Core installation) (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
| Windows Server 2012 (Server Core installation) (2807986) | Elevation of Privilege | Important | None |
Non-Affected Software
| Operating System |
|---|
| Windows RT |
Update FAQ
Why was this bulletin revised on March 27, 2013?
Microsoft revised this bulletin to correct the workarounds: Prevent users from connecting to a USB device that has already been installed on the system and Disable the USB driver for a USB device that is not already installed on the system. The original workarounds included steps to block the connecting to and installation of USB storage devices. These steps have been removed from the workarounds because they are unnecessary.
I applied the original workarounds. Do I need to reapply the workarounds?
No. Customers who have applied the original workarounds do not need to reapply them because the original workarounds block known attack vectors. However, since it is unnecessary to block the connecting to and installation of USB storage devices, Microsoft recommends these steps in the original workarounds be undone.
I applied the original "Prevent users from connecting to a USB device that has already been installed on the system" workaround.How do I undo the steps that disabled USB storage device functionality?
Locate the backup file ("UsbStor_backup.reg ") created in the workaround. Perform the following command on the file:
Regedit /s UsbStor_backup.reg
I applied the original "Disable the USB driver for a USB device that is not already installed on the system" workaround. How do I undo the steps that disabled USB storage device functionality?
Perform the following commands from a command prompt as an administrator:
For Windows XP and Windows Server 2003:
cacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Usbstor.pnf" /E /R everyone
cacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Usbstor.inf" /E /R everyone
For Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, Windows 7, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows 8, and Windows Server 2012:
icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\" /restore %TEMP%\USBSTOR_PNF_ACL.TXT
icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\" /restore %TEMP%\USBSTOR_INF_ACL.TXT
I am using an older release of the software discussed in this security bulletin. What should I do?
The affected software listed in this bulletin have been tested to determine which releases are affected. Other releases are past their support life cycle. For more information about the product lifecycle, see the Microsoft Support Lifecycle website.
It should be a priority for customers who have older releases of the software to migrate to supported releases to prevent potential exposure to vulnerabilities. To determine the support lifecycle for your software release, see Select a Product for Lifecycle Information. For more information about service packs for these software releases, see Service Pack Lifecycle Support Policy.
Customers who require custom support for older software must contact their Microsoft account team representative, their Technical Account Manager, or the appropriate Microsoft partner representative for custom support options. Customers without an Alliance, Premier, or Authorized Contract can contact their local Microsoft sales office. For contact information, see the Microsoft Worldwide Information website, select the country in the Contact Information list, and then click Go to see a list of telephone numbers. When you call, ask to speak with the local Premier Support sales manager. For more information, see the Microsoft Support Lifecycle Policy FAQ.
Vulnerability Information
Severity Ratings and Vulnerability Identifiers
The following severity ratings assume the potential maximum impact of the vulnerability. For information regarding the likelihood, within 30 days of this security bulletin's release, of the exploitability of the vulnerability in relation to its severity rating and security impact, please see the Exploitability Index in the March bulletin summary. For more information, see Microsoft Exploitability Index.
| Affected Software | Windows USB Descriptor Vulnerability - CVE-2013-1285 | Windows USB Descriptor Vulnerability - CVE-2013-1286 | Windows USB Descriptor Vulnerability - CVE-2013-1287 | Aggregate Severity Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows XP | ||||
| Windows XP Service Pack 3 | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows XP Professional x64 Edition Service Pack 2 | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Server 2003 | ||||
| Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 2 | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Server 2003 x64 Edition Service Pack 2 | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Server 2003 with SP2 for Itanium-based Systems | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Vista | ||||
| Windows Vista Service Pack 2 | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Vista x64 Edition Service Pack 2 | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Server 2008 | ||||
| Windows Server 2008 for 32-bit Systems Service Pack 2 | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Server 2008 for x64-based Systems Service Pack 2 | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Server 2008 for Itanium-based Systems Service Pack 2 | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows 7 | ||||
| Windows 7 for 32-bit Systems | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows 7 for 32-bit Systems Service Pack 1 | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows 7 for x64-based Systems | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows 7 for x64-based Systems Service Pack 1 | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 | ||||
| Windows Server 2008 R2 for x64-based Systems | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 for x64-based Systems Service Pack 1 | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 for Itanium-based Systems | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 for Itanium-based Systems Service Pack 1 | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows 8 | ||||
| Windows 8 for 32-bit Systems | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows 8 for 64-bit Systems | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Server 2012 | ||||
| Windows Server 2012 | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Server Core installation option | ||||
| Windows Server 2008 for 32-bit Systems Service Pack 2 (Server Core installation) | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Server 2008 for x64-based Systems Service Pack 2 (Server Core installation) | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 for x64-based Systems (Server Core installation) | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 for x64-based Systems Service Pack 1 (Server Core installation) | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
| Windows Server 2012 (Server Core installation) | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important Elevation of Privilege | Important |
Windows USB Descriptor Vulnerability - CVE-2013-1285
An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists when Windows USB drivers improperly handle objects in memory. An attacker who successfully exploited this vulnerability could run arbitrary code in kernel mode. An attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full administrative rights.
To view this vulnerability as a standard entry in the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures list, see CVE-2013-1285.
Mitigating Factors
Mitigation refers to a setting, common configuration, or general best-practice, existing in a default state, that could reduce the severity of exploitation of a vulnerability. The following mitigating factors may be helpful in your situation:
- In a default configuration, an unauthenticated attacker could only exploit this vulnerability if they have physical access to the system.
Workarounds
Workaround refers to a setting or configuration change that does not correct the underlying vulnerability but would help block known attack vectors before you apply the update. Microsoft has tested the following workarounds and states in the discussion whether a workaround reduces functionality:
Prevent users from connecting to a USB device that has already been installed on the system
Use this workaround to block the attack vector through a USB device that has already been installed on the system. You can change the registry to make sure that the device does not work when the user connects to the computer.
Warning If you use Registry Editor incorrectly, you may cause serious problems that may require you to reinstall your operating system. Microsoft cannot guarantee that you can solve problems that result from using Registry Editor incorrectly. Use Registry Editor at your own risk.
Impact of workaround. Users cannot install a USB RNDIS device on the computer.
Create backups of the registry keys. Backup copies can be made using a managed deployment script with the following commands:
Regedit.exe /e Usb_rndis_backup.reg HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usb_rndis Regedit.exe /e Usb_rndisx_backup.reg HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usb_rndisx Regedit.exe /e Usb_rndis6_backup.reg HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usb_rndis6Create a text file named Disable_USB_RNDIS.reg with the following contents:
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usb_rndis] "Start"=dword:00000004 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usb_rndisx] "Start"=dword:00000004 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usbrndis6] "Start"=dword:00000004Run the registry script you created in step 2 on the target system with the following command:
Regedit /s Disable_USB_RNDIS.reg
How to undo the workaround.
Restore the backup files you created in step 1 of the Prevent users from connecting to a USB device that has already been installed on the system Workaround, above, with the following commands:
Regedit /s Usb_rndis_backup.reg Regedit /s Usb_rndisx_backup.reg Regedit /s Usb_rndis6_backup.regDisable the USB driver for a USB device that is not already installed on the system
Use this workaround to block the attack vector through a USB device that has not already been installed on the system. Run the following commands from a command prompt as an administrator:
For Windows XP and Windows Server 2003:
cacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.pnf" /E /P everyone:N cacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.inf" /E /P everyone:NFor Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, Windows 7, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows 8, and Windows Server 2012:
takeown /f "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.pnf" icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.pnf" /save %TEMP%\NETRNDIS_PNF_ACL.TXT icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.pnf" /deny everyone(F) takeown /f "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.inf" icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.inf" /save %TEMP%\NETRNDIS_INF_ACL.TXT icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.inf" /deny everyone(F)Impact of workaround. Users cannot install a USB RNDIS device on the computer.
How to undo the workaround:
Run the following commands from a command prompt as an administrator:
For Windows XP and Windows Server 2003:
cacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.pnf" /E /R everyone cacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.inf" /E /R everyoneFor Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, Windows 7, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows 8, and Windows Server 2012:
icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\" /restore %TEMP%\NETRNDIS_PNF_ACL.TXT icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\" /restore %TEMP%\NETRNDIS_INF_ACL.TXT
FAQ
What is the scope of the vulnerability?
This is an elevation of privilege vulnerability.
What causes the vulnerability?
The vulnerability is caused when the Windows kernel-mode driver improperly handles objects in memory.
What is the Windows kernel?
The Windows kernel is the core of the operating system. It provides system-level services such as device management and memory management, allocates processor time to processes, and manages error handling.
What might an attacker use the vulnerability to do?
An attacker who successfully exploited this vulnerability could run arbitrary code in kernel mode. An attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full administrative rights.
How could an attacker exploit the vulnerability?
An attacker could exploit the vulnerability by inserting a malicious USB device into the system.
What systems are primarily at risk from the vulnerability?
Workstations are primarily at risk.
What does the update do?
The update addresses the vulnerability by correcting the way that the Windows kernel-mode driver handles objects in memory.
When this security bulletin was issued, had this vulnerability been publicly disclosed?
No. Microsoft received information about this vulnerability through coordinated vulnerability disclosure.
When this security bulletin was issued, had Microsoft received any reports that this vulnerability was being exploited?
No. Microsoft had not received any information to indicate that this vulnerability had been publicly used to attack customers when this security bulletin was originally issued.
Windows USB Descriptor Vulnerability - CVE-2013-1286
An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists when Windows USB drivers improperly handle objects in memory. An attacker who successfully exploited this vulnerability could run arbitrary code in kernel mode. An attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full administrative rights.
To view this vulnerability as a standard entry in the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures list, see CVE-2013-1286.
Mitigating Factors
Mitigation refers to a setting, common configuration, or general best-practice, existing in a default state, that could reduce the severity of exploitation of a vulnerability. The following mitigating factors may be helpful in your situation:
- In a default configuration, an unauthenticated attacker could only exploit this vulnerability if they have physical access to the system.
Workarounds
Workaround refers to a setting or configuration change that does not correct the underlying vulnerability but would help block known attack vectors before you apply the update. Microsoft has tested the following workarounds and states in the discussion whether a workaround reduces functionality:
Prevent users from connecting to a USB device that has already been installed on the system
Use this workaround to block the attack vector through a USB device that has already been installed on the system. You can change the registry to make sure that the device does not work when the user connects to the computer.
Warning If you use Registry Editor incorrectly, you may cause serious problems that may require you to reinstall your operating system. Microsoft cannot guarantee that you can solve problems that result from using Registry Editor incorrectly. Use Registry Editor at your own risk.
Impact of workaround. Users cannot install a USB RNDIS device on the computer.
Create backups of the registry keys. Backup copies can be made using a managed deployment script with the following commands:
Regedit.exe /e Usb_rndis_backup.reg HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usb_rndis Regedit.exe /e Usb_rndisx_backup.reg HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usb_rndisx Regedit.exe /e Usb_rndis6_backup.reg HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usb_rndis6Create a text file named Disable_USB_RNDIS.reg with the following contents:
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usb_rndis] "Start"=dword:00000004 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usb_rndisx] "Start"=dword:00000004 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usbrndis6] "Start"=dword:00000004Run the registry script you created in step 2 on the target system with the following command:
Regedit /s Disable_USB_RNDIS.reg
How to undo the workaround.
Restore the backup files you created in step 1 of the Prevent users from connecting to a USB device that has already been installed on the system Workaround, above, with the following commands:
Regedit /s Usb_rndis_backup.reg Regedit /s Usb_rndisx_backup.reg Regedit /s Usb_rndis6_backup.regDisable the USB driver for a USB device that is not already installed on the system
Use this workaround to block the attack vector through a USB device that has not already been installed on the system. Run the following commands from a command prompt as an administrator:
For Windows XP and Windows Server 2003:
cacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.pnf" /E /P everyone:N cacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.inf" /E /P everyone:NFor Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, Windows 7, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows 8, and Windows Server 2012:
takeown /f "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.pnf" icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.pnf" /save %TEMP%\NETRNDIS_PNF_ACL.TXT icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.pnf" /deny everyone(F) takeown /f "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.inf" icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.inf" /save %TEMP%\NETRNDIS_INF_ACL.TXT icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.inf" /deny everyone(F)Impact of workaround. Users cannot install a USB RNDIS device on the computer.
How to undo the workaround:
Run the following commands from a command prompt as an administrator:
For Windows XP and Windows Server 2003:
cacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.pnf" /E /R everyone cacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.inf" /E /R everyoneFor Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, Windows 7, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows 8, and Windows Server 2012:
icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\" /restore %TEMP%\NETRNDIS_PNF_ACL.TXT icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\" /restore %TEMP%\NETRNDIS_INF_ACL.TXT
FAQ
What is the scope of the vulnerability?
This is an elevation of privilege vulnerability.
What causes the vulnerability?
The vulnerability is caused when the Windows kernel-mode driver improperly handles objects in memory.
What is the Windows kernel?
The Windows kernel is the core of the operating system. It provides system-level services such as device management and memory management, allocates processor time to processes, and manages error handling.
What might an attacker use the vulnerability to do?
An attacker who successfully exploited this vulnerability could run arbitrary code in kernel mode. An attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full administrative rights.
How could an attacker exploit the vulnerability?
An attacker could exploit the vulnerability by inserting a malicious USB device into the system.
What systems are primarily at risk from the vulnerability?
Workstations are primarily at risk.
What does the update do?
The update addresses the vulnerability by correcting the way that the Windows kernel-mode driver handles objects in memory.
When this security bulletin was issued, had this vulnerability been publicly disclosed?
No. Microsoft received information about this vulnerability through coordinated vulnerability disclosure.
When this security bulletin was issued, had Microsoft received any reports that this vulnerability was being exploited?
No. Microsoft had not received any information to indicate that this vulnerability had been publicly used to attack customers when this security bulletin was originally issued.
Windows USB Descriptor Vulnerability - CVE-2013-1287
An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists when Windows USB drivers improperly handle objects in memory. An attacker who successfully exploited this vulnerability could run arbitrary code in kernel mode. An attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full administrative rights.
To view this vulnerability as a standard entry in the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures list, see CVE-2013-1287.
Mitigating Factors
Mitigation refers to a setting, common configuration, or general best-practice, existing in a default state, that could reduce the severity of exploitation of a vulnerability. The following mitigating factors may be helpful in your situation:
- In a default configuration, an unauthenticated attacker could only exploit this vulnerability if they have physical access to the system.
Workarounds
Workaround refers to a setting or configuration change that does not correct the underlying vulnerability but would help block known attack vectors before you apply the update. Microsoft has tested the following workarounds and states in the discussion whether a workaround reduces functionality:
Prevent users from connecting to a USB device that has already been installed on the system
Use this workaround to block the attack vector through a USB device that has already been installed on the system. You can change the registry to make sure that the device does not work when the user connects to the computer.
Warning If you use Registry Editor incorrectly, you may cause serious problems that may require you to reinstall your operating system. Microsoft cannot guarantee that you can solve problems that result from using Registry Editor incorrectly. Use Registry Editor at your own risk.
Impact of workaround. Users cannot install a USB RNDIS device on the computer.
Create backups of the registry keys. Backup copies can be made using a managed deployment script with the following commands:
Regedit.exe /e Usb_rndis_backup.reg HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usb_rndis Regedit.exe /e Usb_rndisx_backup.reg HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usb_rndisx Regedit.exe /e Usb_rndis6_backup.reg HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usb_rndis6`Create a text file named Disable_USB_RNDIS.reg with the following contents:
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usb_rndis]"Start"=dword:00000004 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usb_rndisx]"Start"=dword:00000004[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Usbrndis6]"Start"=dword:00000004`Run the registry script you created in step 2 on the target system with the following command:
Regedit /s Disable_USB_RNDIS.reg
How to undo the workaround.
Restore the backup files you created in step 1 of the Prevent users from connecting to a USB device that has already been installed on the system Workaround, above, with the following commands:
Regedit /s Usb_rndis_backup.reg Regedit /s Usb_rndisx_backup.reg Regedit /s Usb_rndis6_backup.regDisable the USB driver for a USB device that is not already installed on the system
Use this workaround to block the attack vector through a USB device that has not already been installed on the system. Run the following commands from a command prompt as an administrator:
For Windows XP and Windows Server 2003:
cacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.pnf" /E /P everyone:N cacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.inf" /E /P everyone:N`For Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, Windows 7, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows 8, and Windows Server 2012:
takeown /f "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.pnf" icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.pnf" /save %TEMP%\NETRNDIS_PNF_ACL.TXT icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.pnf" /deny everyone(F) takeown /f "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.inf" icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.inf" /save %TEMP%\NETRNDIS_INF_ACL.TXT icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.inf" /deny everyone(F)Impact of workaround. Users cannot install a USB RNDIS device on the computer.
How to undo the workaround:
Run the following commands from a command prompt as an administrator:
For Windows XP and Windows Server 2003:
cacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.pnf" /E /R everyone cacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\Netrndis.inf" /E /R everyoneFor Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, Windows 7, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows 8, and Windows Server 2012:
icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\" /restore %TEMP%\NETRNDIS_PNF_ACL.TXT icacls "%SystemRoot%\Inf\" /restore %TEMP%\NETRNDIS_INF_ACL.TXT`
FAQ
What is the scope of the vulnerability?
This is an elevation of privilege vulnerability.
What causes the vulnerability?
The vulnerability is caused when the Windows kernel-mode driver improperly handles objects in memory.
What is the Windows kernel? The Windows kernel is the core of the operating system. It provides system-level services such as device management and memory management, allocates processor time to processes, and manages error handling.
What might an attacker use the vulnerability to do?
An attacker who successfully exploited this vulnerability could run arbitrary code in kernel mode. An attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full administrative rights.
How could an attacker exploit the vulnerability?
An attacker could exploit the vulnerability by inserting a malicious USB device into the system.
What systems are primarily at risk from the vulnerability?
Workstations are primarily at risk.
What does the update do?
The update addresses the vulnerability by correcting the way that the Windows kernel-mode driver handles objects in memory.
When this security bulletin was issued, had this vulnerability been publicly disclosed?
No. Microsoft received information about this vulnerability through coordinated vulnerability disclosure.
When this security bulletin was issued, had Microsoft received any reports that this vulnerability was being exploited?
No. Microsoft had not received any information to indicate that this vulnerability had been publicly used to attack customers when this security bulletin was originally issued.
Update Information
Detection and Deployment Tools and Guidance
Several resources are available to help administrators deploy security updates.
- Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer (MBSA) lets administrators scan local and remote systems for missing security updates and common security misconfigurations.
- Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), Systems Management Server (SMS), and System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) help administrators distribute security updates.
- The Update Compatibility Evaluator components included with Application Compatibility Toolkit aid in streamlining the testing and validation of Windows updates against installed applications.
For information about these and other tools that are available, see Security Tools for IT Pros.
Security Update Deployment
Affected Software
For information about the specific security update for your affected software, click the appropriate link:
Windows XP (all editions)
Reference Table
The following table contains the security update information for this software.
| Security update file names | For Windows XP Service Pack 3:\ WindowsXP-KB2807986-x86-ENU.exe |
|---|---|
| For Windows XP Professional x64 Edition Service Pack 2:\ WindowsServer2003.WindowsXP-KB2807986-x64-enu.exe | |
| Installation switches | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 262841 |
| Update log file | KB2807986.log |
| Restart requirement | Yes, you must restart your system after you apply this security update. |
| Removal information | Use Add or Remove Programs item in Control Panel or the Spuninst.exe utility located in the %Windir%$NTUninstallKB2807986$\Spuninst folder |
| File information | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 2807986 |
| Registry key verification | For all supported 32-bit editions of Windows XP:\ HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Updates\Windows XP\SP4\KB2807986\Filelist |
| For all supported x64-based editions of Windows XP:\ HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Updates\Windows XP Version 2003\SP3\KB2807986\Filelist |
Note The update for supported versions of Windows XP Professional x64 Edition also applies to supported versions of Windows Server 2003 x64 Edition.
Windows Server 2003 (all editions)
Reference Table
The following table contains the security update information for this software.
| Security update file names | For all supported 32-bit editions of Windows Server 2003:\ WindowsServer2003-KB2807986-x86-enu.exe |
|---|---|
| For all supported x64-based editions of Windows Server 2003:\ WindowsServer2003.WindowsXP-KB2807986-x64-enu.exe | |
| For all supported Itanium-based editions of Windows Server 2003:WindowsServer2003-KB2807986-ia64-enu.exe | |
| Installation switches | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 262841 |
| Update log file | KB2807986.log |
| Restart requirement | Yes, you must restart your system after you apply this security update. |
| Removal information | Use Add or Remove Programs item in Control Panel or the Spuninst.exe utility located in the %Windir%$NTUninstallKB2807986$\Spuninst folder |
| File information | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 2807986 |
| Registry key verification | For all supported 32-bit editions of Windows Server 2003:\ HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Updates\Windows Server 2003\SP3\KB2807986\Filelist |
| For all supported x64-based editions of Windows Server 2003:\ HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Updates\Windows Server 2003\SP3\KB2807986\Filelist |
Note The update for supported versions of Windows Server 2003 x64 Edition also applies to supported versions of Windows XP Professional x64 Edition.
Windows Vista (all editions)
Reference Table
The following table contains the security update information for this software.
| Security update file names | For all supported 32-bit editions of Windows Vista:\ Windows6.0-KB2807986-x86.msu |
|---|---|
| For all supported x64-based editions of Windows Vista:\ Windows6.0-KB2807986-x64.msu | |
| Installation switches | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 934307 |
| Restart requirement | Yes, you must restart your system after you apply this security update. |
| Removal information | WUSA.exe does not support uninstall of updates. To uninstall an update installed by WUSA, click Control Panel, and then click Security. Under Windows Update, click View installed updates and select from the list of updates. |
| File information | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 2807986 |
| Registry key verification | Note A registry key does not exist to validate the presence of this update. |
Windows Server 2008 (all editions)
Reference Table
The following table contains the security update information for this software.
| Security update file names | For all supported 32-bit editions of Windows Server 2008:\ Windows6.0-KB2807986-x86.msu |
|---|---|
| For all supported x64-based editions of Windows Server 2008:\ Windows6.0-KB2807986-x64.msu | |
| For all supported Itanium-based editions of Windows Server 2008:\ Windows6.0-KB2807986-ia64.msu | |
| Installation switches | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 934307 |
| Restart requirement | Yes, you must restart your system after you apply this security update. |
| Removal information | WUSA.exe does not support uninstall of updates. To uninstall an update installed by WUSA, click Control Panel, and then click Security. Under Windows Update, click View installed updates and select from the list of updates. |
| File information | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 2807986 |
| Registry key verification | Note A registry key does not exist to validate the presence of this update. |
Windows 7 (all editions)
Reference Table
The following table contains the security update information for this software.
| Security update file name | For all supported 32-bit editions of Windows 7:\ Windows6.1-KB2807986-x86.msu |
|---|---|
| For all supported x64-based editions of Windows 7:\ Windows6.1-KB2807986-x64.msu | |
| Installation switches | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 934307 |
| Restart requirement | Yes, you must restart your system after you apply this security update. |
| Removal information | To uninstall an update installed by WUSA, use the /Uninstall setup switch or click Control Panel, click System and Security, and then under Windows Update, click View installed updates and select from the list of updates. |
| File | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 2807986 |
| Registry | Note A registry key does not exist to validate the presence of this update. |
Windows Server 2008 R2 (all editions)
Reference Table
The following table contains the security update information for this software.
| Security update file name | For all supported x64-based editions of Windows Server 2008 R2:\ Windows6.1-KB2807986-x64.msu |
|---|---|
| For all supported Itanium-based editions of Windows Server 2008 R2:\ Windows6.1-KB2807986-ia64.msu | |
| Installation switches | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 934307 |
| Restart requirement | Yes, you must restart your system after you apply this security update. |
| Removal information | To uninstall an update installed by WUSA, use the /Uninstall setup switch or click Control Panel, click System and Security, and then under Windows Update, click View installed updates and select from the list of updates. |
| File information | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 2807986 |
| Registry | Note A registry key does not exist to validate the presence of this update. |
Windows 8 (all editions)
Reference Table
The following table contains the security update information for this software.
| Security update file name | For all supported 32-bit editions of Windows 8:\ Windows8-RT-KB2807986-x86.msu |
|---|---|
| For all supported 64-bit editions of Windows 8:\ Windows8-RT-KB2807986-x64.msu | |
| Installation switches | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 934307 |
| Restart requirement | Yes, you must restart your system after you apply this security update. |
| Removal information | To uninstall an update installed by WUSA, use the /Uninstall setup switch or click Control Panel, click System and Security, click Windows Update, and then click Installed updates and select from the list of updates. |
| File information | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 2807986 |
| Registry key verification | Note A registry key does not exist to validate the presence of this update. |
Windows Server 2012 (all editions)
Reference Table
The following table contains the security update information for this software.
| Security update file name | For all supported editions of Windows Server 2012:\ Windows8-RT-KB2807986-x64.msu |
|---|---|
| Installation switches | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 934307 |
| Restart requirement | Yes, you must restart your system after you apply this security update. |
| Removal information | To uninstall an update installed by WUSA, use the /Uninstall setup switch or click Control Panel, click System and Security, click Windows Update, and then click Installed updates and select from the list of updates. |
| File information | See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 2807986 |
| Registry key verification | Note A registry key does not exist to validate the presence of this update. |
Other Information
Acknowledgments
Microsoft thanks the following for working with us to help protect customers:
- Andy Davis of NCC Group for reporting the Windows USB Descriptor Vulnerability (CVE-2013-1285)
- Andy Davis of NCC Group for reporting the Windows USB Descriptor Vulnerability (CVE-2013-1286)
- Andy Davis of NCC Group for reporting the Windows USB Descriptor Vulnerability (CVE-2013-1287)
Microsoft Active Protections Program (MAPP)
To improve security protections for customers, Microsoft provides vulnerability information to major security software providers in advance of each monthly security update release. Security software providers can then use this vulnerability information to provide updated protections to customers via their security software or devices, such as antivirus, network-based intrusion detection systems, or host-based intrusion prevention systems. To determine whether active protections are available from security software providers, please go to the active protections websites provided by program partners, listed in Microsoft Active Protections Program (MAPP) Partners.
Support
How to obtain help and support for this security update
- Help installing updates: Support for Microsoft Update
- Security solutions for IT professionals: TechNet Security Troubleshooting and Support
- Help protect your computer that is running Windows from viruses and malware: Virus Solution and Security Center
- Local support according to your country: International Support
Disclaimer
The information provided in the Microsoft Knowledge Base is provided "as is" without warranty of any kind. Microsoft disclaims all warranties, either express or implied, including the warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. In no event shall Microsoft Corporation or its suppliers be liable for any damages whatsoever including direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, loss of business profits or special damages, even if Microsoft Corporation or its suppliers have been advised of the possibility of such damages. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of liability for consequential or incidental damages so the foregoing limitation may not apply.
Revisions
- V1.0 (March 12, 2013): Bulletin published.
- V1.1 (March 27, 2013): Revised bulletin to remove workaround steps for disabling USB mass storage devices because these steps are not necessary to block known attack vectors. For more information, see Update FAQ.
- V1.2 (July 9, 2013): Bulletin revised to announce a detection change in the Windows Vista packages for the 2807986 update to correct a Windows Update reoffering issue. This is a detection change only. Customers who have already successfully updated their systems do not need to take any action.
Built at 2014-04-18T13:49:36Z-07:00