Vulnerability identifier: #VU68139

Vulnerability risk: Low

CVSSv3.1: 7 [CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H/E:P/RL:O/RC:C]

CVE-ID: CVE-2022-37971

CWE-ID: CWE-36

Exploitation vector: Local

Exploit availability: Yes

Vulnerable software:
Microsoft Malware Protection Engine
Client/Desktop applications / Antivirus software/Personal firewalls

Vendor: Microsoft

Description

The vulnerability allows a local user to escalate privileges on the system.

The vulnerability exists due to insufficient path processing in the Microsoft Windows Defender. A local user can delete arbitrary files and folders on the system and escalate privileges.

Mitigation
Install updates from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

Microsoft Malware Protection Engine: All versions

---

External links
http://portal.msrc.microsoft.com/en-US/security-guidance/advisory/CVE-2022-37971
http://i.blackhat.com/EU-22/Wednesday-Briefings/EU-22-Yair-Aikido-Turning-EDRs-to-Malicious-Wipers.pdf

---

Q & A

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

No. This vulnerability can be exploited locally. The attacker should have authentication credentials and successfully authenticate on the system.

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.