External risk intelligence

Microsoft Windows COM Remote Code Execution Vulnerability.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2018-0824

A remote code execution vulnerability exists in Microsoft COM for Windows. This impacts multiple Windows operating systems and could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, leading to data compromise and service disruption. The realistic business risk includes unauthorized system control and potential data breaches.

2Halo Surface Signal

Deserialization

Microsoft Windows 10 1507

r2

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2018-0824

This vulnerability affects a core Windows COM component. While the attack vector is listed as network, exploitation requires a user to interact with a specially crafted file or script. It is not an exposed service or edge application by design, and successful exploitation typically requires tricking a user into opening malicious content locally, making direct, unsolicited internet-based exploitati

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

A vulnerability in Microsoft COM for Windows could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code. This flaw arises from the improper handling of serialized objects. The potential impact includes unauthorized access to and modification of data, disruption of services, and the execution of malicious commands within affected systems.

  • Vulnerable: Microsoft COM for Windows
  • Weakness: Improper object handling
  • Impact: Code execution, data compromise

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability affects Microsoft COM for Windows when it improperly handles serialized objects, potentially allowing attackers to execute code. The attack requires an attacker to gain initial access and then trick a user into interacting with a malicious file or script. Successfully exploiting this vulnerability could allow an attacker to gain control over the affected system.

  • Exposure: Network-accessible COM component.
  • Attacker access: Trick user interaction.
  • Trigger: User opens malicious content.
  • Result: Attacker gains system control.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability impacts Microsoft Windows systems by allowing remote code execution. An attacker could exploit this by sending a specially crafted object to an affected system. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access, data theft, or system disruption. Organizations should consider this a high-risk vulnerability due to the potential for significant business impact.

  • Attackers with low skill level.
  • Requires user interaction.
  • High business risk or urgency.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

A vulnerability in Microsoft COM for Windows can allow for remote code execution. This impacts multiple versions of Windows operating systems, potentially affecting system integrity and data confidentiality. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of serialized objects.

  • Identify affected Windows systems.
  • Reduce exposure and isolate risk.
  • Apply vendor fixes and validate.
  • Monitor for related issues.

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary weakness in Microsoft COM for Windows that leads to a remote code execution vulnerability?

The primary weakness is the improper handling of serialized objects within Microsoft COM for Windows. This allows specially crafted objects to be processed in a way that can lead to unauthorized code execution.

How can an attacker exploit the Microsoft COM for Windows remote code execution vulnerability?

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted object to an affected system, or by tricking a user into interacting with a malicious file or script. This often requires the attacker to gain initial access and then prompt user interaction.

Which Microsoft Windows operating systems are affected by the COM remote code execution vulnerability?

This vulnerability affects various versions of Windows, including Windows 7, Windows 8.1, Windows RT 8.1, Windows 10 (multiple versions), Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows Server 2012, Windows Server 2012 R2, and Windows Server 2016.

What is the relevance of the Halo Surface Signal score for this CVE, and why is it rated 'Unlikely' for direct internet exploitation?

The Halo Surface Signal score is 'Unlikely' because, while the attack vector is network, exploitation typically requires user interaction with malicious content. It's not an exposed service by design, making unsolicited internet-based exploitation less probable.

What are the recommended practical steps to address the Microsoft COM for Windows vulnerability?

Organizations should identify all affected Windows systems, reduce exposure and isolate any identified risks, and promptly apply vendor-provided fixes. Continuous monitoring for related issues is also recommended.

References