CVE-2020-16940 : What You Need to Know

Windows - User Profile Service Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability was published on October 13, 2020. The vulnerability affects various Microsoft Windows versions.

Understanding CVE-2020-16940

This CVE identifies an elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Windows User Profile Service (ProfSvc) that could allow an attacker to delete files and folders in an elevated context.

What is CVE-2020-16940?

An elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Windows User Profile Service allows attackers to delete files and folders in an elevated context by exploiting how junction points are handled.

The Impact of CVE-2020-16940

Attackers can delete files and folders in an elevated context
Requires the attacker to log on to the system and run a specially crafted application

Technical Details of CVE-2020-16940

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the improper handling of junction points by the Windows User Profile Service (ProfSvc).

Affected Systems and Versions

Windows 7, 8.1, 10, Server 2008, 2012, 2016, 2019
Various versions of Windows 10, Server 2019, 2004, 1909, 1903, 1809, 1803, 1709, 1607, 1507

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit the vulnerability, an attacker must log on to the system and run a specially crafted application to delete files or folders.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2020-16940 with the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the security update provided by Microsoft
Monitor for any unusual file deletions or unauthorized access

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update your operating system and software
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit user access

Patching and Updates

Ensure all affected systems are updated with the security patch released by Microsoft.