CVE-2021-40465 : What You Need to Know

This CVE record involves the Windows Text Shaping Remote Code Execution Vulnerability affecting various Microsoft products.

Understanding CVE-2021-40465

This section provides insight into the impact, vulnerability description, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation practices related to CVE-2021-40465.

What is CVE-2021-40465?

The CVE-2021-40465, known as the Windows Text Shaping Remote Code Execution Vulnerability, poses a threat of remote code execution.

The Impact of CVE-2021-40465

The vulnerability has a CVSS Base Score of 7.8 (HIGH) indicating its severity. The exploit can lead to unauthorized remote code execution with significant control over the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-40465

Let's delve into the specifics of this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers to execute code remotely on affected systems.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following Microsoft products are impacted:

Windows 10 Version 1809
Windows Server 2019
Windows Server 2019 (Server Core installation)
Windows 10 Version 1909
Windows 10 Version 21H1
Windows Server 2022
Windows 10 Version 2004
Windows Server version 2004
Windows 10 Version 20H2
Windows Server version 20H2
Windows 11 version 21H2
Windows 10 Version 1507
Windows 10 Version 1607
Windows Server 2016
Windows Server 2016 (Server Core installation)
Windows 7
Windows 7 Service Pack 1
Windows 8.1
Windows Server 2008 Service Pack 2
Windows Server 2008 Service Pack 2 (Server Core installation)
Windows Server 2008 Service Pack 2
Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1
Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1 (Server Core installation)
Windows Server 2012
Windows Server 2012 (Server Core installation)
Windows Server 2012 R2
Windows Server 2012 R2 (Server Core installation)

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability remotely, leading to potential code execution on affected systems.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems against CVE-2021-40465, consider the following mitigation and preventive measures:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches released by Microsoft promptly.
Monitor and restrict network traffic to and from affected systems.
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit potential damage.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and systems.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.
Stay informed about emerging threats and security best practices.

Patching and Updates

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