CVE-2020-1218 : Security Advisory and Response

A detailed overview of the Microsoft Word Remote Code Execution Vulnerability.

Understanding CVE-2020-1218

This CVE involves a critical remote code execution vulnerability in Microsoft Word software, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code on a user's system.

What is CVE-2020-1218?

A remote code execution vulnerability exists in Microsoft Word due to improper handling of objects in memory, allowing attackers to exploit this flaw.

The Impact of CVE-2020-1218

The vulnerability could enable an attacker to execute actions within the security context of the affected user, potentially leading to unauthorized actions being performed on the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-1218

Details regarding the vulnerability and affected systems.

Vulnerability Description

An attacker could exploit this flaw using a specially crafted file to execute actions as the current user.
Attack scenarios include email and web-based attacks.
The security update addresses the issue by fixing how Word handles files in memory.

Affected Systems and Versions

Microsoft SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016 (Version: 16.0.0)
Microsoft SharePoint Enterprise Server 2013 Service Pack 1 (Version: 15.0.0)
Microsoft SharePoint Server 2019 (Version: 16.0.0)
Microsoft Office 2019 (Version: 19.0.0)
Microsoft Word 2013 Service Pack 1 (Version: 15.0.1)
And more affected versions.

Exploitation Mechanism

Users must open a specially crafted file with the affected Microsoft Word software to be exploited.
Attackers can send malicious files via email or host them on a compromised website to trick users into opening them.

Mitigation and Prevention

Measures to mitigate the CVE-2020-1218 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Microsoft Word and related software to the latest patched versions.
Avoid opening suspicious files or clicking on links from unknown sources.
Educate users on recognizing and avoiding phishing attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Implement email and web security filters to detect and block malicious files.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Microsoft for affected software versions to remediate the vulnerability.