CVE-2018-0966 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A security feature bypass vulnerability, known as the "Device Guard Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability," affects Windows Server 2016, Windows 10, and Windows 10 Servers.

Understanding CVE-2018-0966

This CVE identifies a security loophole that allows incorrect validation of untrusted files by Device Guard, leading to a security feature bypass.

What is CVE-2018-0966?

The vulnerability arises from Device Guard incorrectly validating untrusted files, enabling a security feature bypass.

The Impact of CVE-2018-0966

The vulnerability affects Windows Server 2016, Windows 10, and Windows 10 Servers, potentially allowing malicious actors to bypass security features.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-0966

This section provides technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The security feature bypass vulnerability in Device Guard allows for incorrect validation of untrusted files, compromising system security.

Affected Systems and Versions

Windows Server 2016 (Server Core installation)
Windows 10: Various versions including 32-bit Systems, Version 1511, Version 1607, Version 1703, Version 1709, and x64-based Systems
Windows 10 Servers: version 1709 (Server Core Installation)

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by manipulating untrusted files to bypass Device Guard's validation process.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-0966 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Microsoft promptly.
Implement strict file validation protocols to mitigate the risk of security feature bypass.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch systems to address known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security audits and assessments to identify and remediate potential security gaps.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for and apply security updates and patches released by Microsoft to address the security feature bypass vulnerability.