CVE-2019-1461 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2019-1461, a vulnerability in Microsoft Word software that can lead to a denial of service due to memory object mishandling. Find out affected systems and mitigation steps.
Microsoft Word software contains a vulnerability that could lead to a denial of service due to inadequate memory object management.
Understanding CVE-2019-1461
What is CVE-2019-1461?
The vulnerability in Microsoft Word software, known as 'Microsoft Word Denial of Service Vulnerability,' can be exploited to cause a denial of service by mishandling memory objects.
The Impact of CVE-2019-1461
The vulnerability could allow an attacker to crash the Microsoft Word software, leading to a denial of service condition, impacting productivity and potentially causing data loss.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-1461
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from the software's improper handling of objects in memory, which can be exploited by an attacker to disrupt the application's functionality.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Microsoft Office 2019 for 32-bit and 64-bit editions
- Microsoft Office 2010 Service Pack 2 for both 32-bit and 64-bit editions
- Office 365 ProPlus on 32-bit and 64-bit systems
- Microsoft Word 2016 (32-bit and 64-bit editions)
- Microsoft Word 2010 Service Pack 2 for both 32-bit and 64-bit editions
- Microsoft Word 2013 RT Service Pack 1
- Microsoft Word 2013 Service Pack 1 for both 32-bit and 64-bit editions
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by a remote attacker sending a specially crafted file to the user, triggering the denial of service condition when the file is opened in the affected Microsoft Word software.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the necessary security updates provided by Microsoft to address the vulnerability.
- Avoid opening files from untrusted or unknown sources to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update the Microsoft Word software and other Microsoft Office products to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Educate users on safe computing practices to prevent the execution of malicious files.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all Microsoft Office products, including Microsoft Word, are kept up to date with the latest security patches to protect against potential exploits.