CVE-2020-16887 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2020-16887, an elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Windows Network Connections Service, affecting various Windows versions. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
Windows Network Connections Service Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability was published on October 13, 2020, by Microsoft. The vulnerability affects various Windows versions and allows attackers to execute code with elevated permissions.
Understanding CVE-2020-16887
This CVE involves an elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Windows Network Connections Service, enabling attackers to run code with elevated permissions.
What is CVE-2020-16887?
An elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Windows Network Connections Service allows attackers to execute code with elevated permissions by exploiting how the service handles objects in memory.
The Impact of CVE-2020-16887
The vulnerability poses a high severity risk with a CVSS base score of 7.8, indicating a significant threat to affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-16887
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The Windows Network Connections Service vulnerability arises from improper handling of objects in memory, enabling attackers to escalate privileges.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Windows 10 Version 1803, 1809, 1909, 2004
- Windows Server 2019, 2019 (Server Core installation)
- Windows 7, 8.1
- Windows Server 2008, 2008 R2, 2012, 2012 R2, 2016
Exploitation Mechanism
To exploit the vulnerability, a locally authenticated attacker can run a specially crafted application to take advantage of the service's memory handling flaw.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-16887 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the security update provided by Microsoft to address the vulnerability.
- Monitor for any signs of exploitation or unauthorized access.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update systems with the latest security patches.
- Implement strong access controls and least privilege principles to limit potential attack surfaces.
Patching and Updates
Microsoft has released a security update to fix the vulnerability in the Windows Network Connections Service. Ensure all affected systems are promptly patched to prevent exploitation.