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Microsoft Windows Update Assistant Improper Access Control Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

March 17th, 2021

Vulnerability Details

This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Microsoft Windows. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target system in order to exploit this vulnerability.

The specific flaw exists within the Windows Update Assistant. The issue results from incorrect permissions on a directory. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code in the context of Administrator.

Additional Details

Microsoft has issued an update to correct this vulnerability. More details can be found at:
https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-27070

Disclosure Timeline

  • 2020-11-11 - Vulnerability reported to vendor
  • 2021-03-17 - Coordinated public release of advisory

Credit

Abdelhamid Naceri (halov)

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