CVE-2024-49069
Microsoft
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CVE-2024-49069 is a Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution Vulnerability that could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on a victim's system. This vulnerability exists in how Excel processes specially crafted files. Despite a CVSS score of 7.8, the SOCRadar Vulnerability Risk Score (SVRS) is 30, indicating a lower level of immediate threat activity observed across various threat intelligence sources at this time. Exploitation could lead to remote code execution, potentially compromising sensitive data or enabling attackers to gain control of the affected system. Though the SVRS suggests lower immediate risk compared to the CVSS, organizations should still apply available patches and follow vendor advisories to mitigate potential future threats, especially given the "In The Wild" tag. Timely patching remains critical.
Description
CVE-2024-49069 is a Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution Vulnerability. This vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on a targeted system by enticing a user to open a specially crafted Excel file. Despite a CVSS score of 7.8, the SOCRadar Vulnerability Risk Score (SVRS) is 30, indicating a lower immediate risk compared to vulnerabilities with scores above 80. However, due to the "In the Wild" tag, it should not be disregarded.
Key Insights
- Remote Code Execution: The most critical aspect is the potential for remote code execution (RCE). A successful exploit allows an attacker to gain control over the user's system without needing local access.
- User Interaction Required: The vulnerability requires user interaction (opening a malicious Excel file). Therefore, social engineering tactics can be used to trick users into opening the file.
- "In the Wild" Exploitation: The "In the Wild" tag signifies that this vulnerability is actively exploited by hackers, increasing the risk.
- CWE-416 (Use After Free): This indicates the vulnerability likely arises from improper memory management, where a program attempts to use memory after it has been freed, leading to unpredictable and exploitable behavior.
Mitigation Strategies
- Apply Microsoft's Security Patch: The immediate and most crucial step is to apply the security update released by Microsoft to address CVE-2024-49069. This patch will resolve the underlying vulnerability and prevent exploitation.
- Enhance Email Security: Implement robust email filtering and scanning solutions to detect and block potentially malicious Excel files. Train users to recognize and report suspicious emails and attachments.
- User Awareness Training: Conduct regular user awareness training to educate employees about the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected Excel files from unknown sources. Emphasize the importance of verifying the sender's authenticity before opening any attachment.
- Enable Attack Surface Reduction (ASR) Rules: Enable ASR rules in Microsoft Defender for Endpoint (or equivalent security solutions) to block common exploit techniques used in file-based attacks, which can help prevent the execution of malicious code even if a vulnerable file is opened.
Additional Information
While the SVRS score is relatively low at 30, the "In the Wild" tag indicates a real and present threat. Consistent monitoring and proactive security measures are crucial.
If users have additional queries regarding this incident, they can use the 'Ask to Analyst' feature, contact SOCRadar directly, or open a support ticket for more information if necessary.
Indicators of Compromise
Exploits
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Social Media
Affected Software
References
CWE Details
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