CVE-2020-1563 : Security Advisory and Response

A remote code execution vulnerability exists in Microsoft Office software when the software fails to properly handle objects in memory. An attacker who successfully exploited the vulnerability could run arbitrary code in the context of the current user. If the current user is logged on with administrative user rights, an attacker could take control of the affected system. Users whose accounts are configured to have fewer user rights on the system could be less impacted than users who operate with administrative user rights. Exploitation of the vulnerability requires that a user open a specially crafted file with an affected version of Microsoft Office. In an email attack scenario, an attacker could exploit the vulnerability by sending the specially crafted file to the user and convincing the user to open the file. The security update addresses the vulnerability by correcting how Microsoft Office handles objects in memory.

Understanding CVE-2020-1563

This section provides insights into the vulnerability and its impact.

What is CVE-2020-1563?

CVE-2020-1563 is a remote code execution vulnerability in various versions of Microsoft Office software due to improper handling of memory objects.

The Impact of CVE-2020-1563

Successful exploitation could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the user's context.
Attackers could potentially take control of the affected system, leading to unauthorized activities such as program installation, data manipulation, or account creation.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-1563

Exploring the specific technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

Type: Remote Code Execution
Language: English

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects the following Microsoft Office products:

Microsoft Office 2019 (Version 19.0.0)
Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise (Version 16.0.1)
Microsoft Office 2016 (Version 16.0.0)
Microsoft Office 2010 Service Pack 2 (Version 13.0.0.0)
Microsoft Office 2013 Service Pack 1 (Version 15.0.0)

Exploitation Mechanism

Users need to open a specially crafted file with the affected Office version for exploitation.
In an email attack, users could be lured into opening the malicious file.

Mitigation and Prevention

Understanding the steps to mitigate and prevent exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the security update provided by Microsoft to address the vulnerability.
Exercise caution when opening email attachments or files from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update the Microsoft Office software to the latest version.
Educate users on safe practices when handling email attachments and files.

Patching and Updates

Keep the Microsoft Office software updated with the latest security patches to safeguard against potential vulnerabilities.