External risk intelligence

Microsoft Outlook Security Feature Bypass

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2023-35311

Microsoft Outlook applications are affected by a security feature bypass that allows attackers to circumvent security prompts. This poses a risk to organizational data and operations if an attacker can trick a user into interacting with malicious content. The realistic business risk involves potential unauthorized acce

1Halo Surface Signal

Microsoft 365 Apps

2019202120132016

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2023-35311

This vulnerability affects Microsoft Outlook, which is a client-side desktop application. It is not a network-accessible service, web application, or edge device, and its execution relies on user-initiated interaction within the local software environment, not public internet exposure.

CVSS vector

CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

Microsoft Outlook applications are affected by a security feature bypass vulnerability. This flaw can allow an attacker to bypass security prompts within Outlook. The impact of this bypass could lead to unauthorized access or manipulation of sensitive information, posing a risk to organizational data and operations.

  • Vulnerable: Microsoft Outlook applications
  • Flaw: Bypasses security prompts
  • Impact: Compromise of sensitive data

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability allows an attacker to bypass security prompts within Microsoft Outlook. Organizations using affected versions of Outlook may be exposed to malicious actions if an attacker can trick a user into interacting with a specially crafted element. This could lead to unauthorized access or modifications to data within the Outlook environment.

  • External systems with network access.
  • Attacker tricks user into interaction.
  • Bypasses security, enables impact.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability in Microsoft Outlook allows attackers to bypass security prompts. This could enable them to execute malicious code, access sensitive data, or disrupt operations. The potential for significant damage necessitates prompt attention from affected organizations.

  • Attackers likely need low skill.
  • Requires user interaction.
  • Business risk is high.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability in Microsoft Outlook allows attackers to bypass security prompts, potentially leading to unauthorized actions. The organization should prioritize identifying all instances of affected Outlook versions across its systems. Once identified, steps should be taken to reduce the potential for exploitation, followed by the application of vendor-provided security updates and subsequent validation of their successful implementation. Continuous monitoring for any related malicious activity is also recommended.

  • Find affected Microsoft Outlook assets.
  • Reduce exposure or isolate affected assets.
  • Apply vendor fix, verify, and monitor.

Frequently asked questions

What is Microsoft Outlook and its primary functions?

Microsoft Outlook is an application designed for managing emails, calendars, contacts, and tasks. It serves as a crucial tool for both personal and professional communication, enabling users to send, receive, organize emails, schedule meetings, and maintain contact lists.

What type of weakness does CVE-2023-35311 represent in Microsoft Outlook?

CVE-2023-35311 is identified as a security feature bypass vulnerability. Specifically, it is a weakness in how Microsoft Outlook handles its security prompts, potentially allowing an attacker to circumvent these protective notices.

How might an attacker exploit the security feature bypass in Microsoft Outlook?

An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by crafting a specific element that, when interacted with by a user, bypasses Outlook's security prompts. This bypass could then facilitate unauthorized actions, such as accessing sensitive data or executing malicious code.

What is the relevance of CVE-2023-35311, especially concerning external systems?

This vulnerability in Microsoft Outlook is relevant because it can bypass security prompts, potentially impacting systems where an attacker can trick a user into interaction. While Outlook is a client-side application, the bypass could lead to the compromise of sensitive information if user interaction is achieved through crafted elements, posing a risk to organizational data and operations.

What practical steps should an organization take to address this Outlook vulnerability?

Organizations should first identify all systems running affected versions of Microsoft Outlook. Then, they should take steps to reduce the potential for exploitation, such as isolating vulnerable assets if possible. Applying vendor-provided security updates is critical, followed by validation that the updates have been successfully implemented. Ongoing monitoring for any related malicious activity is also advised.

References

Sources and related resources

Primary sources: NVD, CVE.org, CISA KEV.

NVDPublished Modified