CVE-2021-40489 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2021-40489, a Storage Spaces Controller Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability affecting multiple Microsoft Windows versions. Understand the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
A Storage Spaces Controller Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability affecting various Microsoft Windows versions.
Understanding CVE-2021-40489
This vulnerability impacts multiple Microsoft Windows versions, allowing malicious actors to elevate privileges.
What is CVE-2021-40489?
The Storage Spaces Controller Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability enables attackers to gain elevated privileges on affected systems.
The Impact of CVE-2021-40489
The vulnerability has a base severity of HIGH, with a CVSS base score of 7.8. Successful exploitation could lead to significant system compromise.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-40489
Details regarding the vulnerability and impacted systems.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw allows attackers to elevate privileges on systems running the affected Microsoft Windows versions.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Windows 10 Version 1809, Server 2019, Server 2019 (Server Core installation)
- Windows 10 Version 1909, 21H1, Server 2022
- Windows 10 Version 2004, Server version 2004, 20H2
- Windows 11 version 21H2, 1507, 1607
- Windows Server 2016, Server 2016 (Server Core installation)
- Windows 7, 7 Service Pack 1, 8.1, 2008 Service Pack 2, 2008 Service Pack 2 (Server Core installation), and 2008 R2 Service Pack 1
- Windows Server 2012, Server 2012 (Server Core installation), 2012 R2, and 2012 R2 (Server Core installation)
Exploitation Mechanism
Malicious actors can exploit this vulnerability by running specially crafted applications to execute arbitrary code and elevate privileges on the target systems.
Mitigation and Prevention
Measures to mitigate and prevent exploitation of CVE-2021-40489.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security updates provided by Microsoft promptly.
- Monitor systems for any unusual activity that may indicate exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Maintain up-to-date antivirus software.
- Implement the principle of least privilege for user accounts.
- Regularly audit and review system logs for suspicious activities.
Patching and Updates
Ensure all affected systems are updated with the latest security patches released by Microsoft.