CVE-2020-1484 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Windows Work Folders Service Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability was published on August 17, 2020, by Microsoft. The vulnerability affects various Windows versions.

Understanding CVE-2020-1484

This CVE identifies an elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Windows Work Folders Service.

What is CVE-2020-1484?

An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists due to the improper handling of memory in the Windows Work Folders Service by Microsoft.

The Impact of CVE-2020-1484

Exploitation of this vulnerability requires prior execution on the target system. An attacker could then run a specially crafted application to elevate privileges.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-1484

This section covers the technical aspects of the CVE vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from the mishandling of memory within the Windows Work Folders Service, leading to an elevation of privilege.

Affected Systems and Versions

Windows 10 Version 2004, Windows Server version 2004
Windows 10 Version 1803, Windows 10 Version 1809
Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2019 (Server Core installation)
Windows 10 Version 1909, Windows Server, version 1909 (Server Core installation)
Windows 10 versions 1507, 1607, 1709, 1903
Windows 7, 8.1, Server 2008 R2, Server 2012 R2, Server 2016
Various platforms such as x64-based Systems, 32-bit Systems, and ARM64-based Systems

Exploitation Mechanism

The security update addresses the vulnerability by correcting how the Windows Work Folders Service handles memory, preventing malicious actors from exploiting it.

Mitigation and Prevention

Here are the steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2020-1484 vulnerability:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the security update provided by Microsoft to address the vulnerability
Monitor for any unusual activities on the network that might indicate exploitation

Long-Term Security Practices

Keep systems up to date with the latest patches and security updates
Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict unnecessary access

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for and apply security updates and patches to ensure ongoing protection against vulnerabilities.