Vulnerability identifier: #VU15260

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-2018-8502

CWE-ID: CWE-119

Exploitation vector: Network

Exploit availability: No

Vulnerable software:
Microsoft Excel
Client/Desktop applications / Office applications
Microsoft Office
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 handling of objects in Protected View in Microsoft Excel. A remote attacker can create a specially specially crafted Excel document, trick the victim into opening it, trigger memory corruption and execute arbitrary code on the target system.

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

Mitigation
Install update from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

Microsoft Excel:

Microsoft Office: 2013, 2010, 365 ProPlus, 2019

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External links
http://portal.msrc.microsoft.com/en-US/security-guidance/advisory/CVE-2018-8502

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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.