#VU26886 Permissions, Privileges, and Access Controls in Microsoft AutoUpdate - CVE-2020-0984

Vulnerability identifier: #VU26886

Vulnerability risk: High

CVSSv4.0: 8.1 [CVSS:4.0/AV:N/AC:L/AT:N/PR:N/UI:N/VC:H/VI:H/VA:H/SC:N/SI:N/SA:N/E:U/U:Amber]

CVE-ID: CVE-2020-0984

CWE-ID: CWE-264

Exploitation vector: Network

Exploit availability: No

Vulnerable software:
Microsoft AutoUpdate
Client/Desktop applications / Other client software

Vendor: Microsoft

Description

The vulnerability allows a remote attacker to escalate privileges on the system.

The vulnerability exists due to the Microsoft AutoUpdate (MAU) application for Mac improperly validates updates before executing them. A remote attacker can place a specially crafted executable in a specific location used by the update application and execute arbitrary code in a privileged context. 

Mitigation
Install updates from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

Microsoft AutoUpdate: All versions

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External links
https://portal.msrc.microsoft.com/en-US/security-guidance/advisory/CVE-2020-0984

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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.