CVE-2013-3660 Microsoft Win32k: memory-safety flaw
In plain words: The program mishandles the memory it uses to keep track of data. A specially made input can scramble that memory. Usually lets an attacker crash the program or run their own code with its permissions.
Confirmed exploited by CISA on · US federal patch deadline Apr 18, 2022
What to do
- Install Microsoft's security update for Win32k. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships.
- Turn on automatic updates for the operating system and for Office, PDF and archive apps.
- Be careful with unexpected attachments — documents, .zip/.rar files and shortcuts are common bait.
- Use a normal (non-admin) account day to day and keep built-in protection like Microsoft Defender on.
Who is affected
Could reach you. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.
What's at risk: Your files, saved passwords and accounts. Many of these let a program that is already running gain full administrator control.
The details
- Official name
- Microsoft Win32k Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
- Product
- Microsoft Win32k
- CISA description
- The EPATHOBJ::pprFlattenRec function in win32k.sys in the kernel-mode drivers in Microsoft does not properly initialize a pointer for the next object in a certain list, which allows local users to gain privileges.
- Type of flaw
- Memory-safety flaw (CWE-119)
- Confirmed exploited
- Mar 28, 2022
- US federal patch deadline
- Apr 18, 2022
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Answering about CVE-2013-3660 ·
Questions about CVE-2013-3660
Is CVE-2013-3660 being exploited?
Yes. CISA added CVE-2013-3660 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on Mar 28, 2022, which means there is reliable evidence of real-world attacks.
How do I fix CVE-2013-3660?
Install Microsoft's security update for Win32k. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships. Turn on automatic updates for the operating system and for Office, PDF and archive apps.
Am I affected by CVE-2013-3660?
Only if you use Microsoft Win32k. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.