CVE-2020-0840 : What You Need to Know

An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists when Windows improperly handles hard links, aka 'Windows Hard Link Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability'. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2020-0841, CVE-2020-0849, CVE-2020-0896.

Understanding CVE-2020-0840

This CVE identifies an elevation of privilege vulnerability in Windows.

What is CVE-2020-0840?

This vulnerability occurs due to the improper handling of hard links in the Windows operating system, allowing attackers to elevate privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2020-0840

The vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to gain elevated privileges on affected systems, potentially leading to unauthorized access or control.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-0840

CVE-2020-0840 has the following technical details:

Vulnerability Description

Type: Elevation of Privilege
Name: Windows Hard Link Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability

Affected Systems and Versions

Microsoft Windows versions affected include 8.1, 10, and Windows Server.
Specific affected versions for each system are detailed in the JSON data.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers could exploit this vulnerability through malicious hard links to gain elevated privileges on the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-0840, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Microsoft.
Monitor system activity for any signs of unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update the operating system and software.
Implement least privilege access controls to limit potential impact.
Educate users on safe computing practices to prevent social engineering attacks.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security updates and apply patches promptly to mitigate vulnerabilities.