CVE-2020-16929 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2020-16929, a remote code execution vulnerability in Microsoft Excel affecting various Microsoft products. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation details, and mitigation steps.
Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution Vulnerability was published on October 13, 2020. It affects various Microsoft products like Microsoft Excel, SharePoint, Office, and more.
Understanding CVE-2020-16929
This CVE involves a remote code execution vulnerability in Microsoft Excel, potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the affected system.
What is CVE-2020-16929?
A remote code execution vulnerability in Microsoft Excel arises from improper handling of objects in memory, enabling an attacker to run arbitrary code in the user's context.
The Impact of CVE-2020-16929
- Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, allowing the attacker to install programs, view, modify, or delete data, and create new accounts.
- Users with administrative rights are at higher risk, while those with limited rights may be less impacted.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-16929
This section provides detailed technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
- Exploitable through specially crafted files in affected versions of Microsoft Excel.
- Attack scenarios include email attacks with malicious attachments or web-based attacks via compromised websites.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Microsoft products like Excel 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, SharePoint, Office Online Server, and more are impacted.
- Specific affected versions and platforms are detailed for each product.
Exploitation Mechanism
- Users need to open a malicious file to trigger the vulnerability, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-16929 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the security update provided by Microsoft to address the vulnerability.
- Educate users about phishing emails and the risks associated with opening unknown attachments.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and security patches to prevent future vulnerabilities.
- Implement email filtering and web security measures to detect and block malicious content.
Patching and Updates
- Microsoft has released security updates to fix the vulnerability by addressing memory object handling in Excel.