CVE-2017-0020 : What You Need to Know

Microsoft Excel and Office Web Apps Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

Understanding CVE-2017-0020

What is CVE-2017-0020?

CVE-2017-0020 is a vulnerability in Microsoft Excel 2016, Excel 2010 SP2, Excel 2013 RT SP1, and Office Web Apps Server 2013 SP1 that allows remote attackers to execute unauthorized code or cause a denial of service.

The Impact of CVE-2017-0020

This vulnerability, known as the "Microsoft Office Memory Corruption Vulnerability," can be exploited by specially crafted documents, posing a risk of remote code execution.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-0020

Vulnerability Description

Type: Remote Code Execution
Attack Vector: Network
Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required

Affected Systems and Versions

Microsoft Excel 2016
Excel 2010 SP2
Excel 2013 RT SP1
Office Web Apps Server 2013 SP1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited through the use of specially crafted documents, triggering memory corruption that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Microsoft
Avoid opening or downloading suspicious documents or files
Implement network security measures to detect and block malicious activities

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and security patches
Conduct security awareness training for employees
Use advanced threat protection solutions

Patching and Updates

Microsoft has released security updates to address CVE-2017-0020. Ensure all affected systems are updated with the latest patches.