CVE-2018-8405VulnerabilityPublished 03/28/2022Updated 10/24/2026

CVE-2018-8405: Microsoft DirectX Graphics Kernel Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

Affects Microsoft DirectX Graphics Kernel (DXGKRNL)Source CISA KEV

Severity

High

No CVSS score published yet

Exploitation: Actively exploited – in CISA KEV since 03/28/2022
KEV deadline: 04/18/2022
Ransomware: Used in ransomware campaigns
EPSS: 3.4% chance of exploitation in 30 days – higher than 88% of CVEs

What to do

CISA required action

Apply updates per vendor instructions.

nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2018-8405 (opens in a new tab)

Description

CVE-2018-8405 is a high-severity elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Microsoft DirectX Graphics Kernel (DXGKRNL) driver. The flaw arises from improper handling of objects in memory by the driver, allowing attackers to escalate privileges. This vulnerability has been exploited in the wild and is known to have been used in ransomware campaigns. No specific affected versions or patch information is provided in the available data.

Summary

CVE-2018-8405 is an elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Microsoft DirectX Graphics Kernel (DXGKRNL) driver caused by improper handling of objects in memory. This flaw enables attackers to gain higher privileges on affected systems. The vulnerability has been observed in active exploitation scenarios, including ransomware campaigns. The input data does not specify affected versions or patch availability.

Impact

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability allows attackers to escalate privileges on affected Windows systems, potentially enabling them to execute code with elevated rights. This can facilitate further compromise, including deployment of ransomware. The vulnerability has been confirmed to be exploited in the wild.

Mitigation

Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Due to the lack of explicit patch or remediation information in the provided data, users should consult official Microsoft security advisories for updates and apply any available fixes promptly.

Weaknesses

CWE-404Unclassified weakness (opens in a new tab)

What to do

Description

AnalysisAI-generated, updated 10/24/2026, 11:12:05 UTC

Weaknesses

References

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