External risk intelligence

Microsoft .NET, SharePoint, Visual Studio Code Execution Vulnerability

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2020-1147

A remote code execution vulnerability exists in .NET Framework, Microsoft SharePoint, and Visual Studio. This occurs when the software does not properly validate the source of XML file input. Attackers could exploit this to execute code within the affected system, posing a risk to data and operations.

3Halo Surface Signal

Remote Code Execution

Microsoft Net Core

2.13.12.03.03.54.6.24.74.7.14.7.24.64.6.14.83.5.14.5.2201320162010201915.0 to 15.916.0 to 16.6

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2020-1147

The vulnerability affects diverse components like Visual Studio, .NET, and SharePoint. While SharePoint is often public-facing, many .NET applications and developer tools operate in isolated environments. Consequently, the reachability of the vulnerable XML deserialization process varies significantly based on the specific deployment context.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

A vulnerability exists in .NET Framework, Microsoft SharePoint, and Visual Studio that could allow for unauthorized code execution. This occurs when the software does not properly validate the origin of XML data. If exploited, an attacker could run code within the affected system, potentially leading to data compromise or system disruption.

  • Vulnerable software components
  • Failure to validate XML input
  • Unauthorized code execution

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability can be exploited when software processes XML data without properly validating its source. An attacker can leverage this by sending specially crafted XML input to a vulnerable application. Successful exploitation allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the application processing the XML, potentially leading to unauthorized access and system compromise.

  • Exposed XML processing functionality.
  • Attacker provides malicious XML.
  • Code execution and system impact.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability presents a significant risk due to its potential for remote code execution in critical Microsoft products like .NET Framework, SharePoint, and Visual Studio. Attackers could leverage this by tricking users into processing malicious XML files, leading to unauthorized code execution within the affected application's environment. The high severity and potential for widespread impact across various Microsoft platforms necessitate prompt attention and remediation to mitigate business risk.

  • Likely attacker skill: Unknown
  • Required access or conditions: User interaction
  • Business risk or urgency: High

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability impacts organizations using Microsoft .NET Framework, SharePoint, and Visual Studio. Attackers could potentially execute arbitrary code by providing specially crafted XML input. Addressing this requires a structured approach to identify affected systems, mitigate risks, and implement necessary updates.

  • Identify affected .NET, SharePoint, and Visual Studio assets.
  • Reduce exposure by isolating risky systems.
  • Apply vendor fixes, verify, and monitor.

Frequently asked questions

What is the .NET Framework and related Microsoft products affected by CVE-2020-1147?

.NET Framework, Microsoft SharePoint, and Visual Studio are affected by CVE-2020-1147. These Microsoft products are utilized for building and running a variety of applications and services across Windows operating systems.

How does CVE-2020-1147 enable remote code execution?

CVE-2020-1147 is a remote code execution vulnerability stemming from a failure to properly validate the source of XML data. When vulnerable software processes XML input, an attacker can provide malicious XML, leading to unauthorized code execution within the context of the affected application.

What is the weakness class for CVE-2020-1147 and how is it triggered?

The weakness class is improper input validation related to XML processing. It is triggered when an attacker supplies specially crafted XML data to a vulnerable application, bypassing security checks and enabling the execution of malicious code.

What is the relevance of CVE-2020-1147, and why is it considered 'Possible' in terms of exposure?

CVE-2020-1147 is relevant due to its potential for code execution in .NET, SharePoint, and Visual Studio. Its exposure is rated 'Possible' because while components like SharePoint can be public-facing, many .NET applications and developer tools run in isolated environments, varying the reachability of the vulnerability.

What steps should be taken to respond to CVE-2020-1147?

To respond to CVE-2020-1147, organizations should identify all affected .NET, SharePoint, and Visual Studio assets. Mitigate risks by isolating potentially vulnerable systems and prioritize applying vendor-supplied security updates. Verify that patches are successfully implemented and establish ongoing monitoring.

References