CVE-2010-1896

CVE-2010-1896 is a high-severity vulnerability in Microsoft Windows 2003 Server with a CVSS 3.x base score of 8.4. It is not currently listed as actively exploited by CISA, and its EPSS exploit-prediction score is low. The underlying weakness is classified as CWE-20.

Key facts

Description

The Windows kernel-mode drivers in win32k.sys in Microsoft Windows XP SP2 and SP3, Windows Server 2003 SP2, Windows Vista SP1 and SP2, and Windows Server 2008 Gold and SP2 do not properly validate user-mode input passed to kernel mode, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted application, aka "Win32k User Input Validation Vulnerability."

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2010-1896?
The Windows kernel-mode drivers in win32k.sys in Microsoft Windows XP SP2 and SP3, Windows Server 2003 SP2, Windows Vista SP1 and SP2, and Windows Server 2008 Gold and SP2 do not properly validate user-mode input passed to kernel mode, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted application, aka "Win32k User Input Validation Vulnerability."
How severe is CVE-2010-1896?
CVE-2010-1896 has a CVSS 3.x base score of 8.4, rated high severity. It is exploitable over local access with low attack complexity, requires no privileges and no user interaction. Impact on confidentiality is high, integrity high, and availability high.
Is CVE-2010-1896 being actively exploited?
It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 1% (70th percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
What products are affected by CVE-2010-1896?
CVE-2010-1896 primarily affects Microsoft Windows 2003 Server. In total, 14 product configurations (CPEs) are listed as vulnerable; see the affected-products list for the exact versions.
How do I fix CVE-2010-1896?
Review the linked vendor and NVD advisories for patched versions and mitigations, then upgrade or apply the recommended workaround. Given its high severity, prioritise patching exposed systems.
When was CVE-2010-1896 published?
CVE-2010-1896 was published on 2010-08-11 and last updated on 2026-06-16.

References

Affected products (14)

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