CVE-2020-16924 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A remote code execution vulnerability in the Windows Jet Database Engine that could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on a victim system.

Understanding CVE-2020-16924

A critical vulnerability in the Windows Jet Database Engine that poses a high risk of remote code execution.

What is CVE-2020-16924?

The vulnerability arises from the improper handling of objects in memory by the Windows Jet Database Engine.
Attackers can exploit this flaw to execute malicious code on a targeted system.
The issue can be triggered by convincing a user to open a specially crafted file.

The Impact of CVE-2020-16924

Type: Remote Code Execution
Severity: High
CVSS Base Score: 7.8
Vector String: CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H/E:P/RL:O/RC:C

Technical Details of CVE-2020-16924

A detailed overview of the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on a victim's system.

Affected Systems and Versions

Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1803, 1809, 1909, 2004
Windows Server 2019, 2019 (Server Core installation), 2016, 2016 (Server Core installation)
Windows 7, 7 Service Pack 1, 8.1, RT 8.1
Windows Server 2008, 2008 Service Pack 2, 2008 R2 Service Pack 1
Windows Server 2012, 2012 (Server Core installation), 2012 R2, 2012 R2 (Server Core installation)

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by tricking users into opening a specially crafted file.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE-2020-16924 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the security update provided by Microsoft to fix the vulnerability.
Educate users about the risks of opening files from unknown or untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update systems with the latest security patches and updates.
Implement robust security measures to prevent unauthorized access to systems.

Patching and Updates

Ensure all affected systems are updated with the patch released by Microsoft to mitigate the vulnerability.