CVE-2018-0949 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A security feature bypass vulnerability in Microsoft Internet Explorer affects various versions, allowing attackers to exploit UNC resource requests.

Understanding CVE-2018-0949

What is CVE-2018-0949?

The vulnerability, known as "Internet Explorer Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability," arises from mishandling UNC resource requests in Internet Explorer versions 9, 10, and 11.

The Impact of CVE-2018-0949

This vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to bypass security features in affected Internet Explorer versions, potentially leading to unauthorized access or other malicious activities.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-0949

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from incorrect handling of UNC resource requests in Microsoft Internet Explorer, enabling a security feature bypass.

Affected Systems and Versions

Internet Explorer 9 on Windows Server 2008 for 32-bit Systems Service Pack 2 and x64-based Systems Service Pack 2
Internet Explorer 11 on various Windows versions including Windows 7, 8.1, 10, and Server editions
Internet Explorer 10 on Windows Server 2012

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating UNC resource requests, tricking the browser into bypassing security features.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security updates provided by Microsoft promptly
Consider using alternative browsers until patches are applied

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Internet Explorer and other software to the latest versions
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks

Patching and Updates

Microsoft has released security updates to address this vulnerability
Ensure all affected systems are updated with the latest patches