CVE-2017-8620 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2017-8620, a remote code execution vulnerability in Windows Search affecting various Windows versions. Find out the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
A vulnerability has been discovered in Windows Search in various versions of Windows, including 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. This vulnerability can be exploited remotely to execute arbitrary code due to the improper handling of objects in memory. It is commonly referred to as 'Windows Search Remote Code Execution Vulnerability'.
Understanding CVE-2017-8620
Windows Search in 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 allows a remote code execution vulnerability when it improperly handles objects in memory, aka 'Windows Search Remote Code Execution Vulnerability'.
What is CVE-2017-8620?
- Vulnerability found in Windows Search in various Windows versions
- Allows remote code execution due to memory object handling issue
The Impact of CVE-2017-8620
- Remote attackers can exploit the vulnerability to execute arbitrary code
- Potential for unauthorized access and control of affected systems
Technical Details of CVE-2017-8620
Windows Search in 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 is affected by a remote code execution vulnerability due to improper memory object handling.
Vulnerability Description
- Improper handling of objects in memory leads to remote code execution
Affected Systems and Versions
- Microsoft Windows Search Component in various versions of Windows
- Includes 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
Exploitation Mechanism
- Remote attackers can exploit the vulnerability to execute arbitrary code
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take:
- Apply security patches provided by Microsoft
- Implement network segmentation to limit exposure
Long-Term Security Practices:
- Regularly update and patch systems and software
- Conduct security assessments and audits to identify vulnerabilities
Patching and Updates:
- Stay informed about security updates from Microsoft
- Apply patches promptly to mitigate the risk of exploitation