Microsoft Windows HelpPane CVE-2017-0100 Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

Description

Microsoft Windows is prone to a privilege-escalation vulnerability. Successful exploits may allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of another user’s session.

Technologies Affected

• Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1607 for 32-bit Systems
• Microsoft Windows 10 Version 1607 for x64-based Systems
• Microsoft Windows 10 for 32-bit Systems
• Microsoft Windows 10 for x64-based Systems
• Microsoft Windows 10 version 1511 for 32-bit Systems
• Microsoft Windows 10 version 1511 for x64-based Systems
• Microsoft Windows 7 for 32-bit Systems SP1
• Microsoft Windows 7 for x64-based Systems SP1
• Microsoft Windows 8.1 for 32-bit Systems
• Microsoft Windows 8.1 for x64-based Systems
• Microsoft Windows RT 8.1
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 for Itanium-based Systems SP1
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 for x64-based Systems SP1
• Microsoft Windows Server 2012
• Microsoft Windows Server 2012 R2
• Microsoft Windows Server 2016 for x64-based Systems

Recommendations

Block external access at the network boundary, unless external parties require service.
Filter access to the affected computer at the network boundary if global access isn’t needed. Restricting access to only trusted computers and networks might greatly reduce the likelihood of a successful exploit.

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 such as unexplained incoming and outgoing traffic. This may indicate exploit attempts or activity that results from successful exploits.

Do not accept or execute files from untrusted or unknown sources.
To reduce the likelihood of successful exploits, never handle files that originate from unfamiliar or untrusted sources.

Implement multiple authentication mechanisms.
Provide an additional layer of authentication for sensitive or privileged information.

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