CVE-2020-1495 : What You Need to Know

Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution Vulnerability was published on August 17, 2020. This vulnerability affects multiple Microsoft products.

Understanding CVE-2020-1495

This CVE identifies a critical remote code execution vulnerability in Microsoft Excel that could allow an attacker to take control of the affected system.

What is CVE-2020-1495?

Remote code execution vulnerability in Microsoft Excel
Failure to handle objects in memory properly
Allows running arbitrary code in the context of the current user

The Impact of CVE-2020-1495

Successful exploitation can lead to complete system takeover
Attackers can install programs, access, modify, or delete data, and create new accounts
Users with administrative rights are at higher risk

Technical Details of CVE-2020-1495

A detailed overview of the technical aspects of the vulnerability is provided below:

Vulnerability Description

Exploitable due to improper handling of objects in memory

Affected Systems and Versions

Microsoft SharePoint Server 2010 SP2
Office Online Server
Microsoft SharePoint Enterprise Server 2013 SP1
Microsoft Office versions including 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019

Exploitation Mechanism

User opening a specially crafted file triggers the vulnerability
Email attacks with malicious files
Web-based attacks hosting crafted files

Mitigation and Prevention

Key steps to safeguard systems from CVE-2020-1495:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the security update provided by Microsoft
Educate users about the risks of opening unknown files

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to fix vulnerabilities
Implement strong email and web security practices

Patching and Updates

Update Microsoft Excel and other affected products promptly