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CVE-2020-16975 : What You Need to Know

Learn about CVE-2020-16975, an elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Windows Backup Service affecting various Windows versions. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.

Windows Backup Service Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability was published on October 16, 2020, by Microsoft. The vulnerability affects various Windows versions and allows attackers to elevate privileges.

Understanding CVE-2020-16975

This CVE involves an elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Windows Backup Service.

What is CVE-2020-16975?

An elevation of privilege vulnerability occurs due to the improper handling of file operations by the Windows Backup Service.

The Impact of CVE-2020-16975

        Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to gain elevated privileges on the victim system.
        To execute the attack, the attacker needs to gain initial execution on the target system.
        A specially crafted application can be used to elevate privileges.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-16975

This section provides technical details about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The security flaw arises from the incorrect handling of file operations by the Windows Backup Service.

Affected Systems and Versions

        Windows 10 Version 1803, 1809, 1909, 1507, 1607, 1709, 1903, 2004
        Windows Server 2019, 2016
        Windows 7, Server 2008 R2

Exploitation Mechanism

        Attackers exploit the vulnerability by running a specially crafted application after gaining execution on the victim system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE-2020-16975 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

        Apply the security update provided by Microsoft to correct the handling of file operations by the Windows Backup Service.
        Monitor for any unusual file operations or privilege escalations on the system.

Long-Term Security Practices

        Regularly update and patch the operating system and applications to prevent security vulnerabilities.
        Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict unnecessary access rights.

Patching and Updates

        Stay informed about security updates from Microsoft and apply them promptly to secure the system.

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