CVE-2017-8620 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
Windows Search in Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2, Windows RT 8.1, Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, and 1703, and Windows Server 2016 allows a remote code execution vulnerability when it improperly handles objects in memory, aka "Windows Search Remote Code Execution Vulnerability".
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/07/2021
The Windows Search component in various Windows operating systems contains a critical remote code execution vulnerability that stems from improper handling of objects in memory. This vulnerability affects a broad range of Microsoft Windows versions including Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2, Windows RT 8.1, Windows 10 versions 1511, 1607, and 1703, as well as Windows Server 2016. The flaw manifests when the Windows Search service processes maliciously crafted objects in memory, creating an exploitable condition that could allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This vulnerability represents a significant security risk as it can be leveraged by attackers without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where multiple systems may be exposed to network-based attacks.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions that can occur when software does not properly validate input data or memory boundaries. The Windows Search service operates by indexing and searching content across the system, including files, emails, and other digital content. When processing certain file types or content that contains malformed data structures, the search service fails to properly validate memory operations, leading to potential buffer overflows or memory corruption scenarios. Attackers can exploit this by crafting specially formatted content or files that, when processed by the Windows Search service, trigger the memory handling flaw. The vulnerability typically occurs during the indexing process when the service attempts to parse and store metadata from various file formats, including but not limited to Office documents, PDF files, and multimedia content.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it can provide attackers with persistent access to affected systems. Once exploited, the vulnerability allows adversaries to execute malicious code with the privileges of the Windows Search service, which typically runs with elevated permissions. This could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, lateral movement within networks, and establishment of persistent backdoors. The attack surface is particularly broad given the widespread deployment of Windows Search across different versions of Microsoft Windows, making this vulnerability attractive to threat actors seeking to maximize their impact. Organizations running affected systems face significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential disruption of business operations, especially in environments where the search service is actively indexing content from network shares or external sources.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include applying the relevant Microsoft security updates that address the memory handling issues in Windows Search. Organizations should prioritize patching affected systems, particularly those running older Windows versions such as Windows 7 SP1 and Windows Server 2008 R2, which remain common targets for exploitation. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Security administrators should consider disabling the Windows Search service on systems where it is not required, particularly in highly secure environments where the risk of exploitation outweighs the benefits of search functionality. Monitoring for unusual search service activity and implementing intrusion detection systems can help identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001, which covers command and script interpreter execution, as exploitation typically involves executing malicious code through the compromised search service. Organizations should also review their patch management processes to ensure timely deployment of security updates and consider implementing automated patching solutions to reduce the window of exposure.