CVE-2020-1201 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists in the way the Windows Now Playing Session Manager handles objects in memory, aka 'Windows Now Playing Session Manager Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability'.

Understanding CVE-2020-1201

What is CVE-2020-1201?

This CVE refers to an elevation of privilege vulnerability found in the Windows Now Playing Session Manager.

The Impact of CVE-2020-1201

This vulnerability can potentially allow an attacker to elevate their privileges on the affected system, leading to unauthorized access and control.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-1201

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in how the Windows Now Playing Session Manager manages objects in memory.

Affected Systems and Versions

Windows 10 Version 1803 for 32-bit, x64-based, and ARM64-based Systems
Windows 10 Version 1809 for 32-bit, x64-based, and ARM64-based Systems
Windows 10 Version 1709 for 32-bit, x64-based, and ARM64-based Systems
Windows Server versions 1803, 2019, and 2019 (Core installation)
Windows 10 Version 1909 for 32-bit, x64-based, and ARM64-based Systems
Windows Server, version 1909 (Server Core installation)
Windows 10 Version 1903 for 32-bit, x64-based, and ARM64-based Systems
Windows Server, version 1903 (Server Core installation)
Windows 10 Version 2004 for 32-bit, x64-based, and ARM64-based Systems
Windows Server, version 2004 (Server Core installation)

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to manipulate objects in memory, leading to privilege escalation.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security updates provided by Microsoft related to CVE-2020-1201.
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activity indicating exploitation of this vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and operating systems to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict access rights for users and applications.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all affected systems and versions are updated with the latest security patches released by Microsoft.