CVE-2017-8537 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2017-8537, a denial of service vulnerability in Microsoft Malware Protection Engine affecting various Windows versions. Find mitigation steps and patching advice here.
A vulnerability known as "Microsoft Malware Protection Engine Denial of Service Vulnerability" has been identified in the Microsoft Malware Protection Engine affecting various Microsoft operating systems.
Understanding CVE-2017-8537
This CVE impacts the Microsoft Malware Protection Engine on multiple Windows operating systems and Microsoft Exchange Servers.
What is CVE-2017-8537?
The vulnerability allows a denial of service attack when a specially crafted file is not properly scanned by the Malware Protection Engine.
The Impact of CVE-2017-8537
- Denial of service vulnerability affecting Microsoft Forefront and Microsoft Defender on several Windows versions
- Distinct from other CVEs such as CVE-2017-8535, CVE-2017-8536, CVE-2017-8539, and CVE-2017-8542
Technical Details of CVE-2017-8537
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The Microsoft Malware Protection Engine fails to scan a specially crafted file, leading to a denial of service.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Microsoft Forefront and Microsoft Defender on Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2, Windows RT 8.1, Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, and 1703, and Windows Server 2016
- Microsoft Exchange Server 2013 and 2016
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is exploited by using a specially crafted file that bypasses the Malware Protection Engine's scanning mechanism.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protect your systems from CVE-2017-8537 with these mitigation strategies.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security updates provided by Microsoft
- Ensure proper configuration of security software
- Monitor network traffic for signs of exploitation
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update antivirus definitions
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing
- Implement network segmentation and access controls
Patching and Updates
- Install the latest security updates from Microsoft
- Keep the Malware Protection Engine up to date to prevent exploitation