External risk intelligence

Windows MSHTML Platform Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2021-33742

A vulnerability in the Windows MSHTML Platform could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This can lead to unauthorized access and control, impacting data integrity and business operations. The risk arises when users interact with specially crafted content.

3Halo Surface Signal

Out-of-bounds Write

Microsoft Windows 10 1507

before 10.0.10240.18967before 10.0.14393.4467before 10.0.17763.1999before 10.0.18363.1621before 10.0.19041.1052before 10.0.19042.1052before 10.0.19043.1052r2sp2

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2021-33742

This vulnerability affects the Windows MSHTML platform used for rendering web content. It is not a standalone internet-facing service but is triggered when users interact with malicious web content via applications that leverage this platform. Exposure depends on user-initiated actions, making it possible but not inherently public-facing by design.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

The Windows MSHTML Platform contains a vulnerability that could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code. This flaw is related to how the platform handles specific content, potentially enabling malicious actors to compromise systems by tricking users into viewing crafted content. The successful exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to significant business risk through unauthorized system control.

  • Windows MSHTML Platform
  • Flaw in content handling
  • Remote code execution

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

A vulnerability in the Windows MSHTML Platform can be exploited to execute arbitrary code. This occurs when an organization's systems process specially crafted content, leading to unauthorized code execution. This can impact the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems.

  • External access to systems.
  • Attacker directs user to malicious content.
  • Code execution and system compromise.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

The Windows MSHTML Platform Remote Code Execution Vulnerability presents a significant risk due to its potential to allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This could lead to the compromise of sensitive data, disruption of business operations, and the installation of further malicious software. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it can be triggered through user interaction with specially crafted web content, making a broad range of users susceptible. Organizations should treat this vulnerability with high urgency to mitigate potential business impact.

  • Attacker skill level: Moderate
  • Required access or conditions: User interaction with malicious content
  • Business risk or urgency: High

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability in the Windows MSHTML Platform could allow attackers to execute code remotely. This could lead to unauthorized access and control over affected systems. The risk is heightened as this vulnerability has been observed in active campaigns, indicating a potential for widespread impact if unaddressed. Organizations should prioritize remediation to protect against potential exploitation.

  • Identify all Windows systems utilizing the MSHTML platform.
  • Limit exposure through user awareness and web filtering.
  • Apply vendor updates, verify installation, and monitor for anomalies.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Windows MSHTML Platform and its function?

The Windows MSHTML Platform is a core component of Microsoft Windows that handles the rendering of web content. It enables applications to display HTML-based information, much like a web browser, allowing for the presentation of both online and local HTML files.

What type of weakness does CVE-2021-33742 describe?

CVE-2021-33742 identifies a CWE-787 Out-of-bounds Write vulnerability. This occurs when software writes data beyond the allocated memory buffer, potentially overwriting adjacent memory and leading to unexpected program behavior or code execution.

How can an attacker exploit the Windows MSHTML Platform vulnerability?

Exploitation involves an attacker directing a user to process specially crafted content. Successful exploitation allows for remote code execution, potentially leading to system compromise. The scope is generally limited to the user or application interacting with the malicious content.

What is the relevance of CVE-2021-33742 according to CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog?

According to CISA's catalog, CVE-2021-33742 is listed as a known exploited vulnerability, indicating active exploitation in the wild. This elevates the urgency for organizations to apply vendor-provided updates to mitigate the risk of compromise.

What are the recommended steps to address the Windows MSHTML Platform vulnerability?

Organizations should identify all Windows systems using the MSHTML platform, limit exposure by filtering web content, and promptly apply vendor security updates. Verifying the installation of these updates and monitoring for unusual activity are also crucial steps for remediation.

References