CVE-2017-11878 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2017-11878 affecting Microsoft Excel versions 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, and more. Discover the impact, exploitation risks, and mitigation steps for this Remote Code Execution vulnerability.
Microsoft Excel Memory Corruption Vulnerability
Understanding CVE-2017-11878
What is CVE-2017-11878?
The vulnerability titled "Microsoft Excel Memory Corruption Vulnerability" affects various versions of Microsoft Excel, including Microsoft Excel 2007 Service Pack 3, 2010 Service Pack 2, 2013 Service Pack 1, 2013 RT Service Pack 1, 2016, Office Compatibility Pack Service Pack 3, and Excel Viewer 2007 Service Pack 3. It allows attackers to execute arbitrary code within the current user's context due to improper memory object handling.
The Impact of CVE-2017-11878
This vulnerability enables Remote Code Execution, posing a significant security risk to affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-11878
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from the improper handling of objects in memory by the affected versions of Microsoft Excel, leading to the execution of arbitrary code.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Microsoft Excel 2007 Service Pack 3
- Microsoft Excel 2010 Service Pack 2
- Microsoft Excel 2013 Service Pack 1
- Microsoft Excel 2013 RT Service Pack 1
- Microsoft Excel 2016
- Microsoft Office Compatibility Pack Service Pack 3
- Microsoft Excel Viewer 2007 Service Pack 3
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to run malicious code within the user's context, potentially compromising the affected systems.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by Microsoft to address the vulnerability promptly.
- Educate users about phishing attacks and the importance of not opening suspicious email attachments.
- Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user permissions.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and security patches to protect against known vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security training for employees to enhance awareness of cybersecurity best practices.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all Microsoft Excel versions mentioned are updated with the latest security patches to mitigate the risk of exploitation.