CVE-2020-17136 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Windows Cloud Files Mini Filter Driver Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability discovered on December 8, 2020, poses a high severity risk affecting various Microsoft Windows versions.

Understanding CVE-2020-17136

This CVE involves an elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Windows Cloud Files Mini Filter Driver.

What is CVE-2020-17136?

The vulnerability allows attackers to elevate privileges on the affected system, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control.

The Impact of CVE-2020-17136

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as HIGH with a CVSS base score of 7.8.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-17136

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in the Windows Cloud Files Mini Filter Driver, enabling attackers to exploit it for privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Windows 10 Version 20H2, Windows Server version 20H2
Windows 10 Version 1803, Windows 10 Version 1809
Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2019 (Server Core installation)
Windows 10 Version 1909, Windows Server, version 1909 (Server Core installation)
Windows 10 Version 1903 for 32-bit, x64-based, and ARM64-based Systems
Windows Server, version 1903 (Server Core installation)
Windows 10 Version 2004, Windows Server version 2004

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by malicious actors to gain elevated privileges on the affected Windows systems.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-17136 is crucial to prevent potential security breaches.

Immediate Steps to Take

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

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch systems to address known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security training for employees to enhance awareness of potential threats.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all affected systems are updated with the latest security patches from Microsoft to mitigate the risk of exploitation.