CVE-2019-1215VulnerabilityPublished 11/03/2021Updated 10/24/2026

CVE-2019-1215: Microsoft Windows Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

Affects Microsoft WindowsSource CISA KEV

Severity

High

No CVSS score published yet

Exploitation: Actively exploited – in CISA KEV since 11/03/2021
KEV deadline: 05/03/2022
Ransomware: Used in ransomware campaigns
EPSS: 19.3% chance of exploitation in 30 days – higher than 97% of CVEs

What to do

CISA required action

Apply updates per vendor instructions.

nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2019-1215 (opens in a new tab)

Description

CVE-2019-1215 is a high-severity privilege escalation vulnerability in Microsoft Windows. It arises from how the ws2ifsl.sys (Winsock) driver handles objects in memory, allowing attackers to execute code with elevated privileges. This vulnerability has been exploited in the wild and is known to be used in ransomware campaigns.

Summary

Microsoft Windows contains an unspecified vulnerability in the ws2ifsl.sys (Winsock) component related to memory object handling. This flaw enables an attacker to escalate privileges by executing code with elevated rights. The vulnerability has been actively exploited in the wild, including use in ransomware attacks. No specific affected versions or patch information is provided in the available data.

Impact

Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges on affected Windows systems. This can lead to full system compromise, enabling attackers to bypass security controls and deploy ransomware or other malicious payloads.

Mitigation

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

What to do

Description

AnalysisAI-generated, updated 10/24/2026, 09:11:46 UTC

References

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