CVE-2001-0628 in Word
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Word 2000 does not check AutoRecovery (.asd) files for macros, which allows a local attacker to execute arbitrary macros with the user ID of the Word user.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/01/2019
Microsoft Word 2000 contains a critical security flaw in its AutoRecovery file processing mechanism that creates an unauthorized code execution vector for local attackers. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate macro content within AutoRecovery files with the .asd extension. These files are automatically generated by Word during extended editing sessions to preserve work in case of application crashes or system failures. When Word restarts and encounters existing AutoRecovery files, it loads them without performing macro security checks that would normally occur during regular document loading processes. This oversight creates a persistent attack surface where malicious macros can be silently executed with the privileges of the currently logged-in user, effectively bypassing standard macro security controls that protect against potentially harmful code execution.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-489, which describes the improper removal of executable code during software development, and CWE-94, which addresses the execution of arbitrary code due to insufficient input validation. The flaw represents a privilege escalation vulnerability since the malicious macros execute with the user context rather than requiring administrative privileges. From an operational perspective, this vulnerability is particularly dangerous because AutoRecovery files are automatically created and maintained by the application without user intervention, making them ideal attack vectors for persistent malware deployment. Attackers can place malicious macros within these files, which will execute automatically when Word starts, potentially leading to complete system compromise through credential theft, data exfiltration, or further malware installation.
This vulnerability exposes organizations to significant risk during routine Word usage scenarios where AutoRecovery functionality is enabled. The attack requires only local system access, making it particularly dangerous in shared or multi-user environments where attackers might gain access through legitimate user accounts. The exploitability is high due to the automatic nature of AutoRecovery file processing and the fact that these files are typically stored in predictable locations within the user's profile directory. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in application security design where automatic system features do not properly implement security controls that should be consistently applied across all code execution paths. The lack of macro validation during AutoRecovery file loading creates a persistent backdoor that remains active until the system is rebooted or the AutoRecovery files are manually deleted.
Recommended mitigations include disabling AutoRecovery functionality within Word settings, implementing strict macro security policies through group policies or registry modifications, and regularly auditing AutoRecovery file locations for unauthorized content. Organizations should also consider deploying endpoint protection solutions that monitor for suspicious AutoRecovery file modifications and implement user education regarding the risks of enabling AutoRecovery in untrusted environments. The vulnerability highlights the importance of consistent security controls across all application features, particularly those that operate automatically without explicit user interaction. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter execution and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, demonstrating how seemingly benign application features can become critical attack vectors when security controls are improperly implemented. System administrators should ensure that all Word installations are updated to versions that properly validate macros in AutoRecovery files and that appropriate access controls are implemented to limit local system access where possible.