CVE-2021-26864 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2021-26864, a high-severity Elevation of Privilege vulnerability impacting various Microsoft Windows versions. Find out the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
A Windows Virtual Registry Provider Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability affecting multiple Microsoft Windows versions was made public on March 9, 2021, with a CVSS base score of 8.4.
Understanding CVE-2021-26864
This Windows vulnerability allows attackers to elevate privileges on affected systems.
What is CVE-2021-26864?
The CVE-2021-26864 is an Elevation of Privilege vulnerability in the Windows Virtual Registry Provider.
The Impact of CVE-2021-26864
The vulnerability has a high severity level and allows threat actors to escalate privileges on compromised systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-26864
This section provides essential technical details about the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The Windows Virtual Registry Provider Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability enables unauthorized users to gain elevated privileges on impacted Windows systems.
Affected Systems and Versions
- 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 Version 2004
- Windows Server version 2004
- Windows 10 Version 20H2
- Windows Server version 20H2
- Windows 10 Version 1607
- Windows Server 2016
- Windows Server 2016 (Server Core installation)
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability could be exploited by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code or gain higher system privileges.
Mitigation and Prevention
To safeguard your systems, follow the below guidelines.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply official patches and security updates from Microsoft promptly.
- Implement least privilege access controls.
- Monitor system activity for any signs of exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and operating systems.
- Conduct security assessments and audits to identify vulnerabilities proactively.
- Educate users on best security practices and awareness.
Patching and Updates
Keep abreast of security bulletins from Microsoft and apply patches as soon as they are released to mitigate the risk posed by this vulnerability.