CVE-2020-16951 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-16951, a remote code execution vulnerability in Microsoft SharePoint affecting versions 2016, 2019, and 2013. Find mitigation steps and security practices.
Microsoft SharePoint Remote Code Execution Vulnerability was published on October 16, 2020, by Microsoft. The vulnerability affects Microsoft SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016, Microsoft SharePoint Server 2019, and Microsoft SharePoint Foundation 2013 Service Pack 1.
Understanding CVE-2020-16951
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in Microsoft SharePoint when the software fails to check the source markup of an application package. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to run arbitrary code in the context of the SharePoint application pool and the SharePoint server farm account.
What is CVE-2020-16951?
The vulnerability allows attackers to execute code on the affected SharePoint servers by uploading a specially crafted SharePoint application package.
The Impact of CVE-2020-16951
Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential compromise of the SharePoint server.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-16951
The vulnerability details and affected systems are as follows:
Vulnerability Description
- The vulnerability arises from a failure to validate the source markup of application packages in Microsoft SharePoint.
- Attackers can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary code on the SharePoint server.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Microsoft SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016 version 16.0.0
- Microsoft SharePoint Server 2019 version 16.0.0
- Microsoft SharePoint Foundation 2013 Service Pack 1 version 15.0.0
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers need to upload a specially crafted SharePoint application package to exploit the vulnerability.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2020-16951, follow these steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the security update provided by Microsoft to fix the vulnerability.
- Monitor for any unauthorized access or unusual activities on SharePoint servers.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch SharePoint servers to prevent future vulnerabilities.
- Implement access controls and restrictions to limit potential attack surfaces.
- Educate users on safe file uploading practices and security best practices.
Patching and Updates
- Install the security update released by Microsoft to mitigate the vulnerability and enhance the security of SharePoint servers.