CVE-2017-0096 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-0096, a vulnerability in Hyper-V feature of Microsoft Windows, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive data in host OS memory. Find mitigation steps here.
The Hyper-V feature in various versions of Microsoft Windows may allow users of a guest operating system to retrieve sensitive data from the memory of the host operating system.
Understanding CVE-2017-0096
This vulnerability is also known as the 'Hyper-V Information Disclosure Vulnerability.'
What is CVE-2017-0096?
The Hyper-V feature in Microsoft Windows Vista SP2, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2, Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2, Windows 10 Gold, 1511, and 1607, as well as Windows Server 2016, allows guest OS users to obtain sensitive information from host OS memory via a crafted application.
The Impact of CVE-2017-0096
This vulnerability could potentially lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data stored in the host operating system's memory.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-0096
Vulnerability Description
The Hyper-V feature in various versions of Microsoft Windows is susceptible to an information disclosure vulnerability, enabling guest OS users to access sensitive data from the host OS memory.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Hyper-V in Microsoft Windows Vista SP2
- Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2
- Windows 7 SP1
- Windows 8.1
- Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2
- Windows 10 Gold, 1511, and 1607
- Windows Server 2016
Exploitation Mechanism
Users of a guest operating system can exploit this vulnerability through a specifically designed application to access sensitive data from the host operating system's memory.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by Microsoft to address this vulnerability.
- Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict access to sensitive data.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch the operating system and software to prevent security vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security training for users to raise awareness about potential threats and best practices.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all systems running affected versions of Microsoft Windows are updated with the latest security patches to mitigate the risk of exploitation.