CVE-2017-8511 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in Microsoft Office allows remote code execution due to incorrect memory object handling. This vulnerability is known as "Office Remote Code Execution Vulnerability" and affects various versions of Microsoft Office.

Understanding CVE-2017-8511

What is CVE-2017-8511?

This CVE identifies a remote code execution vulnerability in Microsoft Office caused by improper memory object handling.

The Impact of CVE-2017-8511

The vulnerability can be exploited remotely, potentially leading to unauthorized code execution on affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-8511

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Microsoft Office arises from the incorrect handling of objects in memory, allowing attackers to execute remote code.

Affected Systems and Versions

Microsoft Office 2010 Service Pack 2
Microsoft Office 2013 Service Pack 1
Microsoft Office 2016
Microsoft Office Online Server 2016
Microsoft Office Web Apps Server 2010 Service Pack 2
Microsoft Office Web Apps Server 2013 Service Pack 1
Microsoft PowerPoint 2013 RT Service Pack 1
Microsoft PowerPoint 2016 for Mac
Microsoft PowerPoint for Mac 2011
Microsoft SharePoint Enterprise Server 2013 Service Pack 1
Microsoft SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows attackers to exploit the software's memory handling to execute malicious code remotely.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Microsoft promptly.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Educate users on safe browsing practices and suspicious email handling.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and mitigate risks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all affected systems are updated with the latest security patches from Microsoft to mitigate the risk of exploitation.