CVE-2013-3660VulnerabilityPublished 03/28/2022Updated 10/24/2026

CVE-2013-3660: Microsoft Win32k Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

Affects Microsoft Win32kSource CISA KEV

Severity

High

No CVSS score published yet

Exploitation: Actively exploited – in CISA KEV since 03/28/2022
KEV deadline: 04/18/2022
EPSS: 39.3% chance of exploitation in 30 days – higher than 98% of CVEs

What to do

CISA required action

Apply updates per vendor instructions.

nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2013-3660 (opens in a new tab)

Description

CVE-2013-3660 is a privilege escalation vulnerability in the Microsoft Win32k kernel-mode driver. It arises from improper initialization of a pointer in the EPATHOBJ::pprFlattenRec function, allowing local users to elevate their privileges. This vulnerability has been exploited in the wild.

Summary

The vulnerability exists in the EPATHOBJ::pprFlattenRec function within the win32k.sys kernel-mode driver in Microsoft Windows. The function fails to properly initialize a pointer for the next object in a certain list, which can be leveraged by local users to gain elevated privileges on the affected system. This flaw is classified under CWE-119 (Improper Restriction of Operations within the Bounds of a Memory Buffer). Exploitation of this vulnerability has been observed in the wild.

Impact

Successful exploitation allows a local attacker to escalate privileges, potentially gaining SYSTEM-level access. This can lead to full control over the affected system, enabling further malicious activities.

Mitigation

No explicit patch or remediation information is provided in the available data. Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the Microsoft vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Until a fix is applied, restrict local user access and monitor for exploitation attempts.

Weaknesses

CWE-119Buffer Errors (Memory Bounds) (opens in a new tab)

What to do

Description

AnalysisAI-generated, updated 10/24/2026, 11:11:35 UTC

Weaknesses

References

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