Microsoft Windows Uniscribe CVE-2017-0072 Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

Description

Microsoft Windows is prone to a remote code-execution vulnerability. An attacker can exploit this issue by enticing an unsuspecting user to open a malicious file or webpage. An attacker can exploit this issue to execute arbitrary code in the context of an affected system. Failed exploit attempts may result in a denial of service condition; this can result in the attacker gaining complete control of the affected system.

Technologies Affected

• Microsoft Windows 7 for 32-bit Systems SP1
• Microsoft Windows 7 for x64-based Systems SP1
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 for Itanium-based Systems SP1
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 for x64-based Systems SP1
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 for 32-bit Systems SP2
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 for Itanium-based Systems SP2
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 for x64-based Systems SP2

Recommendations

Run all software as a nonprivileged user with minimal access rights.
To reduce the impact of latent vulnerabilities, always run nonadministrative software as an unprivileged user with minimal access rights.

Deploy network intrusion detection systems to monitor network traffic for malicious activity.
Deploy NIDS to monitor network traffic for signs of anomalous or suspicious activity. This includes but is not limited to requests that include NOP sleds and unexplained incoming and outgoing traffic. This may indicate exploit attempts or activity that results from a successful exploit.

Do not accept or execute files from untrusted or unknown sources.
To reduce the likelihood of successful attacks, never handle or open files from unknown sources.

Do not follow links provided by unknown or untrusted sources.
To reduce the likelihood of successful exploits, never visit sites of questionable integrity or follow links provided by unfamiliar or untrusted sources.

Implement multiple redundant layers of security.
Various memory-protection schemes (such as nonexecutable and randomly mapped memory segments) may hinder an attacker’s ability to exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code. Host-based intrusion-prevention systems may also help prevent exploits.

Updates are available. Please see the references or vendor advisory for more information.