CVE-2018-1011 in Excel
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in Microsoft Excel software when the software fails to properly handle objects in memory, aka "Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution Vulnerability." This affects Microsoft Excel. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2018-0920, CVE-2018-1027, CVE-2018-1029.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/09/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-1011 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within Microsoft Excel software that stems from improper handling of objects in memory. This vulnerability specifically affects Microsoft Excel applications and has been classified under the Common Weakness Enumeration framework as a weakness related to improper handling of memory objects. The flaw allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems when Excel processes specially crafted malicious files, creating a significant security risk for organizations relying on spreadsheet applications.
The technical nature of this vulnerability lies in how Microsoft Excel manages memory objects during file processing operations. When Excel encounters malformed or specially constructed spreadsheet files, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize memory objects, leading to potential memory corruption scenarios. This memory handling deficiency creates opportunities for attackers to manipulate the execution flow of the application through buffer overflows or other memory corruption techniques. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through legitimate Excel file processing operations, making it difficult to distinguish between benign and malicious file interactions.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-1011 extends beyond simple data compromise, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and persistent backdoor access. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can execute malicious code with the privileges of the targeted user, potentially escalating to system-level access depending on the execution context. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of Microsoft Excel across different operating systems, making it a widespread concern for enterprise environments. Organizations using Excel for document processing are particularly at risk since the attack vector can be delivered through email attachments or web downloads without requiring user interaction beyond opening the malicious file.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-1011 should follow established security practices including immediate patch deployment from Microsoft, network segmentation to limit lateral movement, and enhanced email filtering to prevent delivery of malicious Excel files. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.005 for remote code execution through application layer attacks and demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date software patches. Organizations should implement multi-layered defenses including endpoint protection solutions, regular security assessments, and user awareness training to reduce the risk of exploitation. Additionally, the vulnerability highlights the necessity of following secure coding practices and memory management protocols as outlined in industry standards such as those provided by the Open Web Application Security Project and the Center for Internet Security benchmarks.