Vulnerability identifier: #VU13777

Vulnerability risk: High

CVSSv3.1: 8.3 [CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:H/E:U/RL:O/RC:C]

CVE-ID: CVE-2018-8172

CWE-ID: CWE-20

Exploitation vector: Network

Exploit availability: No

Vulnerable software:
Visual Studio
Universal components / Libraries / Software for developers
Microsoft Expression Blend
Universal components / Libraries / Software for developers

Vendor: Microsoft

Description

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

The vulnerability exists due to improper check of the source markup of a file for an unbuilt project. A remote unauthenticated attacker can trick the victim into opening a specially crafted file with an affected version of Visual Studio and run arbitrary code in the context of the current user.

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

Mitigation
Install updates from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

Visual Studio: 15.7.5, 15.8 Preview

Microsoft Expression Blend: All versions

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External links
http://portal.msrc.microsoft.com/en-US/security-guidance/advisory/CVE-2018-8172

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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.