CVE-2021-40488 : Security Advisory and Response

A critical vulnerability titled 'Storage Spaces Controller Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability' affecting multiple Microsoft products.

Understanding CVE-2021-40488

This CVE involves an elevation of privilege impact type vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-40488?

The vulnerability 'Storage Spaces Controller Elevation of Privilege' allows attackers to gain elevated privileges on the affected systems.

The Impact of CVE-2021-40488

The base severity of this vulnerability is rated as HIGH with a CVSSv3.1 base score of 7.8.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-40488

This section covers specific technical details of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers to elevate their privileges on the targeted systems.

Affected Systems and Versions

Windows 10 Version 1809, Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2019 (Server Core), Windows 10 versions 1909, 21H1, 2004, 20H2, Windows Server 2022, Windows 11 version 21H2, Windows 10 versions 1507, 1607, Windows Server 2016, Windows Server 2016 (Server Core), Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012, Windows Server 2012 (Server Core), Windows Server 2012 R2, Windows Server 2012 R2 (Server Core)

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of this vulnerability involves attackers manipulating storage spaces controller operations to escalate privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to mitigate the impacts of CVE-2021-40488.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply updates and patches provided by Microsoft.
Monitor system logs for any unusual activities.
Implement the principle of least privilege for user accounts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and systems to the latest versions.
Conduct security training for system administrators and users.
Harden system configurations and restrict unnecessary privileges.

Patching and Updates

Microsoft has released patches and updates to address this vulnerability.