CVE-2017-8631 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in various Microsoft Excel versions and related software, including Excel Services, Microsoft Excel 2007 Service Pack 3, Microsoft Excel 2010 Service Pack 2, Microsoft Excel 2013 Service Pack 1, Microsoft Excel 2013 RT Service Pack 1, Microsoft Excel 2016, Microsoft Office Web Apps 2013, Microsoft Office Compatibility Pack Service Pack 3, Microsoft Excel Web App 2013 Service Pack 1, Microsoft Excel Viewer 2007 Service Pack 3, and Office Online Server, allows for remote code execution due to improper memory object handling. This vulnerability is known as the "Microsoft Office Memory Corruption Vulnerability" and is distinct from other CVE IDs.

Understanding CVE-2017-8631

This CVE ID refers to a remote code execution vulnerability affecting various Microsoft Excel versions and related software.

What is CVE-2017-8631?

CVE-2017-8631 is a security vulnerability that enables remote code execution in Microsoft Excel and associated software due to inadequate memory object management.

The Impact of CVE-2017-8631

The vulnerability poses a significant risk as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, and system compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-8631

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the improper handling of objects in memory within Microsoft Excel and related software, facilitating remote code execution.

Affected Systems and Versions

Microsoft Excel 2007 Service Pack 3
Microsoft Excel 2010 Service Pack 2
Microsoft Excel 2013 Service Pack 1
Microsoft Excel 2013 RT Service Pack 1
Microsoft Excel 2016
Microsoft Office Web Apps 2013
Microsoft Office Compatibility Pack Service Pack 3
Microsoft Excel Web App 2013 Service Pack 1
Microsoft Excel Viewer 2007 Service Pack 3
Office Online Server

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows attackers to craft malicious files or emails that, when opened by a user on the affected software versions, trigger the execution of arbitrary code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-8631 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Microsoft promptly.
Educate users about phishing emails and malicious attachments.
Implement network segmentation to contain potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and security solutions.
Conduct security training for employees to enhance awareness.
Employ intrusion detection and prevention systems.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security updates from Microsoft and apply them to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.