CVE-2020-17074 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Windows Update Orchestrator Service Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability was published by Microsoft on November 10, 2020. The vulnerability affects various versions of Windows 10 and Windows Server.

Understanding CVE-2020-17074

This CVE identifies an Elevation of Privilege vulnerability in the Windows Update Orchestrator Service.

What is CVE-2020-17074?

The CVE-2020-17074 is an Elevation of Privilege vulnerability that allows an attacker to gain elevated privileges on the affected system.

The Impact of CVE-2020-17074

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as HIGH with a CVSS base score of 7.8. It poses a significant risk to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-17074

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability exists in the Windows Update Orchestrator Service, enabling attackers to escalate their privileges on the system.

Affected Systems and Versions

Windows 10 Version 1909 (32-bit Systems, x64-based Systems, ARM64-based Systems)
Windows Server, version 1909 (Server Core installation)
Windows 10 Version 1903 for 32-bit Systems
Windows 10 Version 1903 for x64-based Systems
Windows 10 Version 1903 for ARM64-based Systems
Windows Server, version 1903 (Server Core installation)
Windows 10 Version 2004 (32-bit Systems, ARM64-based Systems, x64-based Systems)
Windows Server version 2004 (x64-based Systems)
Windows 10 Version 20H2 (32-bit Systems, ARM64-based Systems)
Windows Server version 20H2 (x64-based Systems)

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code and take control of the affected system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-17074 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the latest security updates provided by Microsoft.
Monitor for any suspicious activities on the network.
Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user permissions.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing.
Educate users on cybersecurity best practices to prevent social engineering attacks.
Keep systems and software up to date with the latest patches and updates.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security updates from Microsoft and apply them promptly to mitigate the risk of exploitation.