CVE-2020-16933 : Security Advisory and Response

A security feature bypass vulnerability in Microsoft Word software could allow an attacker to perform actions in the security context of the current user by exploiting specially crafted files.

Understanding CVE-2020-16933

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Microsoft Word that could be exploited to bypass security features, potentially leading to unauthorized actions being performed.

What is CVE-2020-16933?

The vulnerability arises from Microsoft Word's improper handling of .LNK files.
An attacker could exploit this flaw to execute actions on behalf of the user who opens the malicious file.
Attack scenarios include email attacks with crafted files or web-based attacks through specially designed websites.

The Impact of CVE-2020-16933

Successful exploitation could allow an attacker to perform actions with the same permissions as the current user.
The security update addresses this vulnerability by fixing how Microsoft Word handles these files.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-16933

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

Type: Security Feature Bypass
Language: English (US)
Description: The flaw allows an attacker to bypass security features in Microsoft Word.

Affected Systems and Versions

Microsoft Office 2019 (32-bit and x64-based Systems) - Version 19.0.0
Microsoft Office 2019 for Mac - Version 16.0.0
Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise (32-bit and x64-based Systems) - Version 16.0.1
Microsoft Word 2016 (32-bit and x64-based Systems) - Version 16.0.1
Microsoft Office 2016 for Mac - Version 16.0.0
Microsoft Word 2010 Service Pack 2 (32-bit and x64-based Systems) - Version 13.0.0.0
Microsoft Word 2013 Service Pack 1 (ARM64-based and 32-bit Systems) - Version 15.0.1
Microsoft Word 2013 Service Pack 1 (x64-based Systems) - Version 15.0.1

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit the vulnerability, a user must open a specially crafted file with an affected version of Microsoft Word software.
Attackers could use email or web-based scenarios to trick users into opening the malicious file.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2020-16933 with these steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

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

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Microsoft Word and other software to the latest versions.
Implement email and web security measures to prevent phishing attacks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates from Microsoft to stay protected.