CVE-2018-0940 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2018-0940, an elevation of privilege vulnerability in Microsoft Exchange Outlook Web Access affecting versions 2010, 2013, and 2016. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures.
An elevation of privilege vulnerability has been identified in Microsoft Exchange Outlook Web Access (OWA) in various versions of Microsoft Exchange Server.
Understanding CVE-2018-0940
What is CVE-2018-0940?
This vulnerability occurs when links within an email message are manipulated, potentially leading to the exploitation of privileges. It has been labeled as "Microsoft Exchange Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability".
The Impact of CVE-2018-0940
The vulnerability affects multiple versions of Microsoft Exchange Server, including 2010, 2013, and 2016.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-0940
Vulnerability Description
Microsoft Exchange Outlook Web Access (OWA) allows an elevation of privilege vulnerability due to how links in the body of an email message are rewritten.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Microsoft Exchange Server 2010 Service Pack 3 Update Rollup 20
- Microsoft Exchange Server 2013 Cumulative Update 18 and 19
- Microsoft Exchange Server 2013 Service Pack 1
- Microsoft Exchange Server 2016 Cumulative Update 7 and 8
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is exploited by manipulating links within email messages, potentially granting unauthorized privileges.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security updates provided by Microsoft for the affected versions.
- Monitor for any unusual activities related to email links.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Educate users on safe email practices and the risks associated with clicking on unknown links.
- Implement email filtering mechanisms to detect and block suspicious emails.
- Regularly update and patch Microsoft Exchange Server to address security vulnerabilities.