CVE-2017-8563 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2017-8563, an elevation of privilege vulnerability in Microsoft Windows affecting various versions. Find out the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
Microsoft Windows 7 SP1, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows RT 8.1, Windows Server 2012 and R2, Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703, and Windows Server 2016 are affected by an elevation of privilege vulnerability due to Kerberos falling back to NT LAN Manager (NTLM) Authentication Protocol.
Understanding CVE-2017-8563
This CVE identifies an elevation of privilege vulnerability in various Microsoft Windows operating systems.
What is CVE-2017-8563?
CVE-2017-8563 is a security vulnerability in Microsoft Windows that allows attackers to elevate their privileges by exploiting the default authentication protocol settings.
The Impact of CVE-2017-8563
This vulnerability can be exploited by malicious actors to gain elevated privileges on the affected systems, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-8563
The technical aspects of this CVE are as follows:
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from Kerberos defaulting to using the NT LAN Manager (NTLM) Authentication Protocol, enabling privilege escalation.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Microsoft Windows 7 SP1
- Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1
- Windows 8.1 and Windows RT 8.1
- Windows Server 2012 and R2
- Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703
- Windows Server 2016
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating the default authentication protocol settings to escalate their privileges on the affected systems.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2017-8563, consider the following mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security updates provided by Microsoft promptly.
- Monitor system logs for any suspicious activity related to privilege escalation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access rights.
- Regularly review and update authentication protocols and configurations to enhance security.
Patching and Updates
- Install security patches and updates released by Microsoft to remediate the vulnerability and enhance system security.