CVE-2021-40474 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution Vulnerability was published on October 13, 2021, affecting various Microsoft Office versions.

Understanding CVE-2021-40474

This CVE identifier is associated with a high-severity vulnerability impacting Microsoft Excel and other related Microsoft Office products.

What is CVE-2021-40474?

The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-40474 is classified as Remote Code Execution, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems.

The Impact of CVE-2021-40474

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as HIGH with a CVSS base score of 7.8 out of 10. Successful exploitation could result in unauthorized access, data manipulation, and potential system compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-40474

This section provides insights into the vulnerability, affected systems, and how the exploitation can occur.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability enables threat actors to remotely execute malicious code on systems running the affected Microsoft Office versions.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following Microsoft products and versions are susceptible to CVE-2021-40474:

Microsoft Office 2019 (versions 19.0.0 and 16.0.1)
Microsoft Office 2019 for Mac (version 16.0.0)
Microsoft Office Online Server (version 16.0.1)
Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise (version 16.0.1)
Microsoft Office LTSC for Mac 2021 (version 16.0.1)
Microsoft Office LTSC 2021 (version 16.0.1)
Microsoft Excel 2016 (version 16.0.5227.1000)
Microsoft Excel 2013 Service Pack 1 (version 15.0.5389.1000)
Microsoft Office Web Apps Server 2013 Service Pack 1 (version 15.0.5389.1000)

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by persuading a user to open a specially crafted file or visit a malicious website, allowing malicious code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems from CVE-2021-40474, follow the mitigation strategies outlined below.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security updates provided by Microsoft for the affected versions.
Exercise caution when opening attachments or clicking on links in unsolicited emails.
Implement security best practices to mitigate the risk of successful exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch Microsoft Office products to address security vulnerabilities.
Educate users on identifying and avoiding social engineering tactics used in phishing attacks.

Patching and Updates

It is crucial to stay informed about security updates released by Microsoft and promptly apply patches to mitigate the risk associated with CVE-2021-40474 vulnerabilities.