CVE-2017-8676 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-8676 affecting Microsoft Windows and Office products, allowing attackers to extract information via a specially crafted application. Find mitigation steps and patching advice here.
A vulnerability known as "Windows GDI+ Information Disclosure Vulnerability" has been identified in various Microsoft Windows operating systems and applications, allowing an authenticated attacker to extract information from a targeted system.
Understanding CVE-2017-8676
What is CVE-2017-8676?
The vulnerability affects Windows Graphics Device Interface (GDI) in multiple Microsoft Windows versions and Office applications, enabling an attacker to retrieve information through a specially crafted application.
The Impact of CVE-2017-8676
The vulnerability poses a risk of information disclosure, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data stored on the affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-8676
Vulnerability Description
The Windows GDI+ vulnerability in Microsoft Windows and Office products allows an authenticated attacker to extract information from a targeted system using a specially designed application.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Microsoft Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1
- Windows 7 SP1
- Windows 8.1
- Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2
- Windows RT 8.1
- Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703, and Server 2016
- Office 2007 SP3
- Office 2010 SP2
- Word Viewer
- Office for Mac 2011 and 2016
- Skype for Business 2016
- Lync 2013 SP1
- Lync 2010
- Lync 2010 Attendee
- Live Meeting 2007 Add-in and Console
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by an authenticated attacker using a specially crafted application to retrieve sensitive information from the targeted system.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by Microsoft promptly.
- Monitor for any unauthorized access or unusual activities on the affected systems.
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch all software and operating systems to address known vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security training for users to recognize and report suspicious activities.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all affected systems and applications are updated with the latest security patches released by Microsoft.