#VU12810 XML Processing Flaw in Microsoft PowerPoint for Mac and Microsoft Office for Mac - CVE-2018-8176

Vulnerability identifier: #VU12810

Vulnerability risk: High

CVSSv4.0: 7 [CVSS:4.0/AV:L/AC:L/AT:N/PR:N/UI:A/VC:H/VI:H/VA:H/SC:L/SI:N/SA:N/E:P/U:Amber]

CVE-ID: CVE-2018-8176

CWE-ID: CWE-611

Exploitation vector: Network

Exploit availability: No

Vulnerable software:
Microsoft PowerPoint for Mac
Client/Desktop applications / Office applications
Microsoft Office for Mac
Client/Desktop applications / Office applications

Vendor: Microsoft

Description

The vulnerability allows a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on the target system.

The vulnerability exists due to improper validation of XML content. A remote user can trick the victim into opening a specially crafted XML file and execute arbitrary code with privileges of the current user.

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability may result in complete compromise of vulnerable system.

Mitigation
Install update from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

Microsoft PowerPoint for Mac: 2016

Microsoft Office for Mac: 2016

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External links
https://portal.msrc.microsoft.com/en-us/security-guidance/advisory/CVE-2018-8176

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Q & A

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

Yes. This vulnerability can be exploited by a remote non-authenticated attacker via the Internet.

Is there known malware, which exploits this vulnerability?

No. We are not aware of malware exploiting this vulnerability. However, proof of concept for this vulnerability is available.