CVE-2020-0638 : Security Advisory and Response

An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists in the way the Update Notification Manager handles files. This CVE affects various Windows and Windows Server versions.

Understanding CVE-2020-0638

This CVE refers to an elevation of privilege vulnerability in Microsoft Windows.

What is CVE-2020-0638?

CVE-2020-0638 is a security vulnerability that allows an attacker to elevate their privileges by exploiting the way the Update Notification Manager processes files on the affected systems.

The Impact of CVE-2020-0638

The exploitation of this vulnerability could enable an attacker to gain elevated permissions on the victim system, leading to potential unauthorized access and control.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-0638

This section provides technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from how the Update Notification Manager handles files, which can be manipulated by an attacker to escalate their privileges on the compromised system.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following systems and versions are affected:

Windows 10 Version 1709 for 32-bit Systems
Windows 10 Version 1803 for 32-bit Systems
Windows 10 Version 1809 for ARM64-based Systems
Windows 10 Version 1803 for x64-based Systems
Windows 10 Version 1709 for ARM64-based Systems
Windows 10 Version 1709 for x64-based Systems
Windows 10 Version 1803 for ARM64-based Systems
Windows 10 Version 1809 for 32-bit Systems
Windows 10 Version 1809 for x64-based Systems
Windows 10 Version 1903 for ARM64-based Systems
Windows 10 Version 1903 for 32-bit Systems
Windows 10 Version 1903 for x64-based Systems
Windows Server 2019
Windows Server 2019 (Core installation)
Windows Server version 1803 (Core Installation)
Windows Server, version 1903 (Server Core installation)
Windows 10 Version 1909 for 32-bit Systems
Windows 10 Version 1909 for x64-based Systems
Windows Server, version 1909 (Server Core installation)
Windows 10 Version 1909 for ARM64-based Systems

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker must first gain execution on the target system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Effective mitigation strategies to address CVE-2020-0638.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security updates from Microsoft as soon as they are available.
Monitor for any unusual system behavior that could indicate exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user permissions.
Regularly update and patch systems to prevent vulnerabilities and mitigate risks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all affected systems are patched with the latest updates from Microsoft to remediate the vulnerability.