CVE-2020-1493 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2020-1493 affecting Microsoft Outlook. An information disclosure vulnerability could expose sensitive data by attaching files in emails.
Understanding CVE-2020-1493
What is CVE-2020-1493?
An information disclosure vulnerability exists in Microsoft Outlook when attaching files to messages, potentially allowing unauthorized access to shared files.
The Impact of CVE-2020-1493
The vulnerability could lead to the exposure of sensitive information if files attached to emails are accessed by unintended recipients.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-1493
Vulnerability Description
- Attaching files as links in Outlook messages can allow unauthorized access.
- Exploitation involves sharing emails with unauthorized individuals bypassing organizational restrictions.
- The security update addresses this issue by fixing how Outlook handles file attachment links.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Microsoft Office 2019 version 19.0.0 on 32-bit and x64-based Systems
- Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise version 16.0.1 on 32-bit and x64-based Systems
- Microsoft Outlook 2016 version 16.0.0.0 on 32-bit and x64-based Systems
- Microsoft Outlook 2013 Service Pack 1 version 15.0.0.0 on 32-bit, x64-based, and ARM64-based Systems
- Microsoft Outlook 2010 Service Pack 2 version 13.0.0.0 on 32-bit and x64-based Systems
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is exploited by attaching files as links in emails to share with unauthorized users, enabling them to access restricted files.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the security update provided by Microsoft promptly to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Avoid attaching files as links in Outlook messages until the patch is applied.
- Educate users on the risks of sharing emails with attached files to unauthorized individuals.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update Outlook and other Microsoft Office products to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.
- Implement user training on secure email practices and data sharing policies.
Patching and Updates
Microsoft has released a security update to address the vulnerability; users are advised to apply the patch to secure their systems.