March 2021 – Microsoft Patch Tuesday and Other Patches

Update sign and text on a computer keyboard button 3D illustration.

Microsoft has released fixes for 82 vulnerabilities, with 10 updates classified as Critical and 72 as Important. Here’s an updated announcement (2021-02-09) from Microsoft: Deploy Windows SSUs and LCUs together with one cumulative update –

Beginning with the February 2021 LCU, we will now publish all future cumulative updates and SSUs for Windows 10, version 2004 and above together as one cumulative monthly update to the normal release category in WSUS.

LCU = Latest Cummulative Update
SSU – Servicing Stack Update

UPDATE – 2021-03-14:
DYMO Label Printer fix for BSOD issues.

UPDATE – 2021-03-13:
Microsoft shares temporary fix for Windows 10 printing crashes

UPDATE – 2013-03-13:
Updates on Microsoft Exchange Server Vulnerabilities (CISA)

UPDATE – 2021-03-10:
Windows 10 KB5000802 (March) update is crashing PCs with BSOD
Windows 10 BSOD crashes include the both workstation and server versions running March 2021 cumulative updates:

  • KB5000802: Windows 10 2004/20H2 & Windows Server 2004/20H2
  • KB5000808: Windows 10 1909 & Windows Server 1909
  • KB5000822: Windows 10 1809 & Windows Server 2019
  • KB5000809: Windows 10 1803 & Windows Server 1803

Zero-Day Vulnerabilities Fixes:
1. Internet Explorer Memory Corruption Vulnerability (CVE-2021-26411)
2. Internet Explorer Remote Code Execution Vulnerability (CVE-2021-27085)
3. Windows Win32k Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability (CVE-2021-27077)
4. Microsoft Exchange Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability (CVE-2021-27078)

Windows 10 Updates for February 2021:

Microsoft Exchange ProxyLogon attacks

Microsoft released out-of-band security updates for the ProxyLogon vulnerability that are actively being used by threat actors worldwide to compromise Microsoft Exchange servers.

These vulnerabilities are being tracked with the following CVEs:

  • CVE-2021-26855 – Microsoft Exchange Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
  • CVE-2021-26857 – Microsoft Exchange Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
  • CVE-2021-26858 – Microsoft Exchange Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
  • CVE-2021-27065 – Microsoft Exchange Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

Microsoft has released security updates for currently supported Microsoft Exchange cumulative updates and older unsupported versions.

Microsoft has released a PowerShell script called Test-ProxyLogon.ps1 that will check for indicators of compromise (IOC) in Exchange HttpProxy logs, Exchange log files, and Windows Application event logs.

March 2021 Exchange Server Security Updates for older Cumulative Updates of Exchange Server

Additional March 2021 Patching Resources:

On March 9, 2021 (PT), Microsoft released security updates affecting the following Microsoft products:

Product FamilyMaximum SeverityMaximum ImpactAssociated KB Articles and/or Support Webpages
Windows 10 v20H2, v2004, v1909, v1809, and v1803CriticalRemote Code ExecutionWindows 10 v2004 and Windows 10 v20H2: 5000802 Windows 10 v1909: 5000808 Windows 10 v1809: 5000822 Windows 10 v1803: 5000809
Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2016, and Server Core installations (2019, 2016, v20H2, v2004, and v1909)CriticalRemote Code ExecutionWindows Server 2019: 5000822 Windows Server 2016: 5000803 Windows Server v2004 and Windows Server v20H2: 5000802 Windows Server v1909: 5000808
Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 R2, and Windows Server 2012CriticalRemote Code ExecutionWindows 8.1 and Windows Server 2012 R2 Monthly Rollup: 5000848 Windows 8.1 and Windows Server 2012 R2 Security Only: 5000853 Windows Server 2012 Monthly Rollup: 5000847 Windows Server 2012 Security Only: 5000840
Internet Explorer 11CriticalRemote Code ExecutionInternet Explorer 11 Cumulative Update: 5000800
Microsoft Office-related softwareImportantRemote Code Execution4484376, 4486673, 4493151, 4493200, 4493203, 4493214, 4493224, 4493225, 4493227, 4493228, 4493229, 4493233, 4493234, 4493239, 4504702, 4504703, 4504707
Microsoft SharePoint-related softwareImportantRemote Code Execution3101541, 4493177, 4493199, 4493230, 4493231, 4493232, 4493238
Power BI Report ServerImportantInformation Disclosure5001284, 5001285
Azure-related softwareCriticalRemote Code ExecutionFind details on security updates for Azure-related software in the Security Update Guide: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide
Microsoft Visual Studio-related softwareCriticalRemote Code ExecutionFind details on security updates for Visual Studio-related software at https://docs.microsoft.com/visualstudio and in the Security Update Guide: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide
Windows Admin CenterImportantSecurity Feature BypassFind details on security updates for Windows Admin Center in the Security Update Guide: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide
HEVC Video ExtensionsCriticalRemote Code ExecutionFind details on security updates for HEVC Video Extensions in the Security Update Guide: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide

Notes:

  • The summary above is an overview of updates for the most recent versions of commonly used software.
  • Updates for older versions, apps, and open source software may not be listed.
  • Updates may have been added or removed from the release after this content was finalized.
  • Find details for all updates in the monthly release in the Security Update Guide: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide
  • For additional details, see the release notes at: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/releaseNote/2021-Mar  

Security vulnerability overview:

Below is a summary showing the number of vulnerabilities addressed in this release, broken down by product/component and by impact.

Vulnerability DetailsRCEEOPIDSFBDOSSPFTMPPublicly DisclosedKnown ExploitMax CVSS
Windows 10 v20H2 & Windows Server v20H2112931400109.9
Windows 10 v2004 & Windows Server v2004112931400109.9
Windows 10 v1909 & Windows Server v1909112831400109.9
Windows 10 v1809 & Windows Server 2019102631400109.8
Windows 10 v180342131200108.8
Windows Server 201681731400109.8
Windows 8.1 & Server 2012 R281230400109.8
Windows Server 201281230300109.8
Internet Explorer 112000000118.8
Microsoft Office-related software7001000007.8
Microsoft SharePoint-related software1010010008.8
Power BI Report Server0010000007.7
Azure-related software2010000009.3
Microsoft Visual Studio-related software6000000008.8
Windows Admin Center0001000004.3
HEVC Video Extensions10000000007.8
RCE = Remote Code Execution | EOP = Elevation of Privilege | ID = Information Disclosure | SFB = Security Feature Bypass | DOS = Denial of Service | SPF = Spoofing | TMP = Tampering

Notes: 

  • Vulnerabilities that overlap components may be represented more than once in the table.
  • The summary above is an overview of updates for commonly used software. Updates for older versions, apps, and open source software may not be listed.
  • Updates may have been added or removed from the release after this content was finalized.
  • Find details for all updates in the monthly release in the Security Update Guide: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide
  • For additional details, see the release notes at: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/releaseNote/2021-Mar  

Resources for deploying updates to remote devices

With so many people working remotely, it is a good time to review guidance on deploying security updates to remote devices, such as desktops, laptops, and tablets. Here are some resources to answer questions pertaining to deploying updates to remote devices.

Part 1: Helping businesses rapidly set up to work securely from personal PCs and mobiles

Part 2: Helping IT send and provision business PCs at home to work securely during COVID-19

Part 3: Manage work devices at home during Covid-19 using Configuration Manager

Part 4: Managing remote machines with cloud management gateway (CMG)

Part 5: Managing Patch Tuesday with Configuration Manager in a remote work world

See also:

Mastering​ Configuration Manager Bandwidth limitations for VPN connected Clients

Vulnerability details for the current month

Below are summaries for some of the security vulnerabilities in this release. These specific vulnerabilities were selected from the larger set of vulnerabilities in the release for one or more of the following reasons: 1) We received inquiries regarding the vulnerability; 2) the vulnerability may have received attention in the trade press; or 3) the vulnerability is potentially more impactful than others in the release. Because we do not provide summaries for every vulnerability in the release, you should review the content in the Security Update Guide for information not provided in these summaries.

Notes on details in the vulnerability summaries:

Attack VectorThis metric reflects the context by which vulnerability exploitation is possible. The Base Score increases the more remote (logically, and physically) an attacker can be in order to exploit the vulnerable component.
Attack ComplexityThis metric describes the conditions beyond the attacker’s control that must exist in order to exploit the vulnerability. Such conditions may require the collection of more information about the target or computational exceptions. The assessment of this metric excludes any requirements for user interaction in order to exploit the vulnerability. If a specific configuration is required for an attack to succeed, the Base metrics should be scored assuming the vulnerable component is in that configuration.
Privileges RequiredThis metric describes the level of privileges an attacker must possess before successfully exploiting the vulnerability.
User InteractionThis metric captures the requirement for a user, other than the attacker, to participate in the successful compromise the vulnerable component. This metric determines whether the vulnerability can be exploited solely at the will of the attacker, or whether a separate user (or user-initiated process) must participate in some manner.
CVE-2021-24089HEVC Video Extensions Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityCritical
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Score MetricsBase CVSS Score: 7.8Privileges Required: NoneConfidentiality: High
Attack Vector: LocalUser Interaction: RequiredIntegrity: High
Attack Complexity: LowScope: UnchangedAvailability: High
Affected Software:HEVC Video Extensions
More Information:https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-24089
CVE-2021-24090Windows Error Reporting Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability 
ImpactElevation of Privilege
SeverityImportant
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Score MetricsBase CVSS Score: 7.8Privileges Required: NoneConfidentiality: High
Attack Vector: LocalUser Interaction: RequiredIntegrity: High
Attack Complexity: LowScope: UnchangedAvailability: High
Affected Software:Windows 10 Version 20H2, Windows 10 Version 2004, Windows 10 Version 1909, Windows Server, version 20H2, Windows Server, version 2004, and Windows Server, version 1909
More Information:https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-24090
CVE-2021-26867Windows Hyper-V Remote Code Execution Vulnerability 
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityCritical
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Score MetricsBase CVSS Score: 9.9Privileges Required: LowConfidentiality: High
Attack Vector: NetworkUser Interaction: NoneIntegrity: High
Attack Complexity: LowScope: ChangedAvailability: High
Affected Software:Windows 10 Version 20H2, Windows 10 Version 2004, Windows 10 Version 1909, Windows Server, version 20H2, Windows Server, version 2004, and Windows Server, version 1909
More Information:https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-26867
CVE-2021-27077Windows Win32k Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
ImpactElevation of Privilege
SeverityImportant
Publicly Disclosed?Yes
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Score MetricsBase CVSS Score: 7.8Privileges Required: LowConfidentiality: High
Attack Vector: LocalUser Interaction: NoneIntegrity: High
Attack Complexity: LowScope: UnchangedAvailability: High
Affected Software:All supported versions of Windows
More Information:https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-27077
CVE-2021-26897Windows DNS Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability 
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityCritical
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation more likely
CVSS Score MetricsBase CVSS Score: 9.8Privileges Required: NoneConfidentiality: High
Attack Vector: NetworkUser Interaction: NoneIntegrity: High
Attack Complexity: LowScope: UnchangedAvailability: High
Affected Software:Windows Server, version 20H2, Windows Server, version 2004, Windows Server, version 1909, Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2016, Windows Server 2012 R2, and Windows Server 2012
More Information:https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-26897
CVE-2021-26411Internet Explorer Memory Corruption Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityCritical
Publicly Disclosed?Yes
Known Exploits?Yes
ExploitabilityExploitation detected
CVSS Score MetricsBase CVSS Score: 8.8Privileges Required: NoneConfidentiality: Low
Attack Vector: NetworkUser Interaction: RequiredIntegrity: High
Attack Complexity: LowScope: ChangedAvailability: Low
Affected Software:Internet Explorer 11 on Windows 10 Version 20H2, Windows 10 Version 2004, Windows 10 Version 1909, Windows 10 Version 1809, Windows 10 Version 1803, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2016, Windows Server 2012 R2, and Windows Server 2012 and Microsoft Edge (EdgeHTML-based) on Windows 10 Version 20H2, Windows 10 Version 2004, Windows 10 Version 1909, Windows 10 Version 1809, Windows 10 Version 1803, Windows Server 2019, and Windows Server 2016
More Information:https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-26411
CVE-2021-27076Microsoft SharePoint Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability 
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityImportant
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation more likely
CVSS Score MetricsBase CVSS Score: 8.8Privileges Required: LowConfidentiality: High
Attack Vector: NetworkUser Interaction: NoneIntegrity: High
Attack Complexity: LowScope: UnchangedAvailability: High
Affected Software:Microsoft SharePoint Foundation 2013, Business Productivity Servers 2010, SharePoint Server 2019, and SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016
More Information:https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-27076     
CVE-2021-27053Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution Vulnerability 
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityImportant
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Score MetricsBase CVSS Score: 7.8Privileges Required: NoneConfidentiality: High
Attack Vector: LocalUser Interaction: RequiredIntegrity: High
Attack Complexity: LowScope: UnchangedAvailability: High
Affected Software:Microsoft Office 2019, Office Online Server, 365 Apps for Enterprise, Excel 2016, Excel 2013, Excel 2010, and Office Web Apps Server 2013
More Information:https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-27053

February 2021 – Microsoft Patch Tuesday and Other Patches

Microsoft has released fixes for 56 vulnerabilities, with 11 updates classified as Critical and 43 as Important. Here’s an updated announcement (2021-02-09) from Microsoft: Deploy Windows SSUs and LCUs together with one cumulative update –

Beginning with the February 2021 LCU, we will now publish all future cumulative updates and SSUs for Windows 10, version 2004 and above together as one cumulative monthly update to the normal release category in WSUS.

LCU = Latest Cummulative Update
SSU – Servicing Stack Update

UPDATE – 2021-02-21
KB4301818 > KB5001078

UPDATE – 2021-02-17
KB4577586

Windows 10 Updates for February 2021:

  • KB4601319 (OS Builds 19041.804 and 19042.804) for Windows 10 version 20H2 / 2004
  • KB4601315 (OS Build 18363.1377) for Windows 10, version 1909
  • KB5001028 (OS Build 18363.1379) Out-of-band for Windows 10, version 1909
  • KB4601345 (OS Build 17763.1757) for Windows 10 version 1809
  • KB4601354 (OS Build 17134.2026) for Windows 10 version 1803
  • KB4601330 (OS Build 15063.2642) for Windows 10 version 1703
  • KB4601318 (OS Build 14393.4225) for Windows 10 version 1607
  • KB4601331 (OS Build 10240.18842) for Windows 10, initial release

Additional February 2021 Patching Resources:

Patched publicly disclosed vulnerabilities:

  • CVE-2021-1721 – .NET Core and Visual Studio Denial of Service Vulnerability
  • CVE-2021-1727 – Windows Installer Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
  • CVE-2021-1733 – Sysinternals PsExec Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
  • CVE-2021-24098 – Windows Console Driver Denial of Service Vulnerability
  • CVE-2021-24106 – Windows DirectX Information Disclosure Vulnerability
  • CVE-2021-26701 – .NET Core Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

Intel microcode updates for Windows:

Microsoft has also released Intel microcode updates for Windows 10 20H2, 2004, 1909, and older versions to fix issues impacting current and previously released Windows 10 versions.

These microcode updates are offered to affected devices via Windows Update but they can also be manually downloaded directly from the Microsoft Catalog using these links:

  • KB4589212: Intel microcode updates for Windows 10, version 2004 and 20H2, and Windows Server, version 2004 and 20H2
  • KB4589211: Intel microcode updates for Windows 10, version 1903 and 1909, and Windows Server, version 1903 and 1909
  • KB4589208: Intel microcode updates for Windows 10, version 1809 and Windows Server 2019
  • KB4589206: Intel microcode updates for Windows 10, version 1803
  • KB4589210: Intel microcode updates for Windows 10, version 1607 and Windows Server 2016
  • KB4589198: Intel microcode updates for Windows 10, version 1507

On February 9, 2021, Microsoft released security updates affecting the following Microsoft products:

Product FamilyMaximum SeverityMaximum ImpactAssociated KB Articles and/or Support Webpages
Windows 10 v20H2, v2004, v1909, v1809, and v1803CriticalRemote Code ExecutionWindows 10 v2004 and Windows 10 v20H2: 4601319 Windows 10 v1909: 4601315 Windows 10 v1809: 4601345 Windows 10 v1803: 4601354
Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2016, and Server Core installations (2019, 2016, v20H2, v2004, and v1909)CriticalRemote Code ExecutionWindows Server 2019: 4601345 Windows Server 2016: 4601318 Windows Server v2004 and Windows Server v20H2: 4601319 Windows Server v1909: 4601315
Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 R2, and Windows Server 2012CriticalRemote Code ExecutionWindows 8.1 and Windows Server 2012 R2 Monthly Rollup: 4601384 Windows 8.1 and Windows Server 2012 R2 Security Only: 4601349 Windows Server 2012 Monthly Rollup: 4601348 Windows Server 2012 Security Only: 4601357
Microsoft Office-related softwareImportantRemote Code Execution4493211, 4493222, 4493196, 4493192, 4493204
Microsoft SharePoint-related softwareImportantRemote Code Execution4493210, 4493194, 4493195, 4493223
Microsoft Lync/Skype for BusinessImportantDenial of Service5000675, 5000688
Microsoft Exchange ServerImportantSpoofing4602269, 4571787
Microsoft .NET-related softwareCriticalRemote Code Execution4601318, 4601050, 4601887, 4603004, 4602960, 4603005, 4602961, 4601354, 4601056, 4603003, 4602959, 4603002, 4602958, 4601051, 4601054
Microsoft Visual StudioImportantRemote Code ExecutionFind details on security updates for Visual Studio-related software in the Security Update Guide: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide
Microsoft Dynamics-related softwareImportantInformation Disclosure4602915
Microsoft Azure-related softwareImportantElevation of PrivilegeFind details on security updates for Azure-related software in the Security Update Guide: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide
Developer toolsImportantRemote Code ExecutionFind details on security updates for developer tools in the Security Update Guide: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide

Notes:

Security vulnerability overview:

Below is a summary showing the number of vulnerabilities addressed in this release, broken down by product/component and by impact.

Vulnerability DetailsRCEEOPIDSFBDOSSPFTMPPublicly DisclosedKnown ExploitMax CVSS
Windows 10 v20H2 & Windows Server v20H210752400319.8
Windows 10 v2004 & Windows Server v200410752400319.8
Windows 10 v1909 & Windows Server v190910652300319.8
Windows 10 v1809 & Windows Server 201910752300319.8
Windows 10 v18037642300319.8
Windows Server 201610531200109.8
Windows 8.1 & Server 2012 R27430200109.8
Windows Server 20127430200109.8
Microsoft Office-related software4000000007.8
Microsoft SharePoint-related software2010010008.8
Lync/Skype for Business0000110006.5
Microsoft Exchange Server0000020006.5
Microsoft .NET-related software2000200008.1
Microsoft Visual Studio-related software2000100107.8
Microsoft Dynamics-related software0010010006.5
Microsoft Azure-related software0200000007.0
Developer tools1100000007.8
RCE = Remote Code Execution | EOP = Elevation of Privilege | ID = Information Disclosure | SFB = Security Feature Bypass | DOS = Denial of Service | SPF = Spoofing | TMP = Tampering

Resources for deploying updates to remote devices:

Part 1: Helping businesses rapidly set up to work securely from personal PCs and mobiles
Part 2: Helping IT send and provision business PCs at home to work securely during COVID-19
Part 3: Manage work devices at home during Covid-19 using Configuration Manager
Part 4: Managing remote machines with cloud management gateway (CMG)
Part 5: Managing Patch Tuesday with Configuration Manager in a remote work world

See also:
Mastering​ Configuration Manager Bandwidth limitations for VPN connected Clients

Vulnerability details for the current month:

Below are summaries for some of the security vulnerabilities in this release:

Attack VectorThis metric reflects the context by which vulnerability exploitation is possible. The Base Score increases the more remote (logically, and physically) an attacker can be in order to exploit the vulnerable component.
Attack ComplexityThis metric describes the conditions beyond the attacker’s control that must exist in order to exploit the vulnerability. Such conditions may require the collection of more information about the target or computational exceptions. The assessment of this metric excludes any requirements for user interaction in order to exploit the vulnerability. If a specific configuration is required for an attack to succeed, the Base metrics should be scored assuming the vulnerable component is in that configuration.
Privileges RequiredThis metric describes the level of privileges an attacker must possess before successfully exploiting the vulnerability.
User InteractionThis metric captures the requirement for a user, other than the attacker, to participate in the successful compromise the vulnerable component. This metric determines whether the vulnerability can be exploited solely at the will of the attacker, or whether a separate user (or user-initiated process) must participate in some manner.
CVE-2021-1727Windows Installer Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
ImpactElevation of Privilege
SeverityImportant
Publicly Disclosed?Yes
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation more likely
CVSS Base Score7.8
Attack VectorLocal
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredLow
User InteractionNone
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareAll supported versions of Windows
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-1727
CVE-2021-1732Windows Win32k Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
ImpactElevation of Privilege
SeverityImportant
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?Yes
ExploitabilityExploitation detected
CVSS Base Score7.8
Attack VectorLocal
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredLow
User InteractionNone
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareWindows 10 v20H2, Windows 10 v2004, Windows 10 v1909, Windows 10 v1809, Windows 10 v1803, Windows Server v20H2, Windows Server v2004, Windows Server v1909, and Windows Server 2019
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-1732
CVE-2021-24074Windows TCP/IP Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityCritical
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation more likely
CVSS Base Score9.8
Attack VectorNetwork
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredNone
User InteractionNone
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareAll supported versions of Windows
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-24074
CVE-2021-24094Windows TCP/IP Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityCritical
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation more likely
CVSS Base Score9.8
Attack VectorNetwork
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredNone
User InteractionNone
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareAll supported versions of Windows
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-24094
CVE-2021- 24077Windows Fax Service Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityCritical
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Base Score9.8
Attack VectorNetwork
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredNone
User InteractionNone
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareAll supported versions of Windows
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-24077
CVE-2021-24078Windows DNS Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityCritical
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation more likely
CVSS Base Score9.8
Attack VectorNetwork
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredNone
User InteractionNone
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareWindows Server v20H2, Windows Server v2004, Windows Server v1909, Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2016, Windows Server 2012 R2, and Windows Server 2012
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-24078
CVE-2021-24088Windows Local Spooler Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityCritical
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Base Score8.8
Attack VectorNetwork
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredLow
User InteractionNone
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareAll supported versions of Windows
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-24088
CVE-2021-24098Windows Console Driver Denial of Service Vulnerability
ImpactDenial of Service
SeverityImportant
Publicly Disclosed?Yes
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Base Score5.5
Attack VectorLocal
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredNone
User InteractionRequired
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityNone
IntegrityNone
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareWindows 10 v20H2, Windows 10 v2004, Windows 10 v1909, Windows 10 v1809, Windows 10 v1803, Windows Server v20H2, Windows Server v2004, Windows Server v1909, and Windows Server 2019
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-24098
CVE-2021-24066Microsoft SharePoint Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityImportant
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation more likely
CVSS Base Score8.8
Attack VectorNetwork
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredLow
User InteractionNone
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareMicrosoft SharePoint Server 2019, Microsoft SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016, Microsoft SharePoint Foundation 2013 Service Pack 1, and Microsoft SharePoint Foundation 2010 Service Pack 2
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-24066
CVE-2021-24067Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityImportant
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Base Score7.8
Attack VectorLocal
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredNone
User InteractionRequired
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareMicrosoft 365 Apps for Enterprise, Excel 2016, Excel 2013, Excel 2010, Office Online Server, Office 2019, Office 2019 for Mac, and Office Web Apps Server 2013
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-24067 

February 2021 Microsoft Office security updates

Microsoft Office security updates are delivered through the Microsoft Update platform and via the Download Center.

Patched Office security vulnerabilities – (Source: Bleeping Computer)

This month’s Office security updates address bugs exposing Windows systems running vulnerable Click to Run and Microsoft Installer (.msi) based editions of Microsoft Office products to remote code execution (RCE), information disclosure, and spoofing attacks.

Microsoft rated the six RCE bugs patched in February 2021 as Important severity issues given that they could enable attackers to execute arbitrary code in the context of the currently logged-in user.

Following successful exploitation, attackers could install malicious programs, view, change, and delete data, as well as make their own admin accounts on exploited Windows devices.

TagCVE IDCVE TitleSeverity
Microsoft Office ExcelCVE-2021-24067Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft Office ExcelCVE-2021-24068Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft Office ExcelCVE-2021-24069Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft Office ExcelCVE-2021-24070Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft Office SharePointCVE-2021-24071Microsoft SharePoint Information Disclosure VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft Office SharePointCVE-2021-1726Microsoft SharePoint Spoofing VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft Office SharePointCVE-2021-24066Microsoft SharePoint Remote Code Execution VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft Office SharePointCVE-2021-24072Microsoft SharePoint Server Remote Code Execution VulnerabilityImportant

Further information about each of them is available within the knowledge base articles linked below.

Microsoft Office 2016:

ProductKnowledge Base article title and number
Excel 2016Description of the security update for Excel 2016: February 9, 2021 (KB4493196)
Office 2016February 2, 2021, update for Office 2016 (KB4493189)
Outlook 2016February 2, 2021, update for Outlook 2016 (KB4493190)
PowerPoint 2016February 2, 2021, update for PowerPoint 2016 (KB4493164)

Microsoft Office 2013:

ProductKnowledge Base article title and number
Excel 2013Description of the security update for Excel 2013: February 9, 2021 (KB4493211)
Office 2013February 2, 2021, update for Office 2013 (KB4486684)
PowerPoint 2013February 2, 2021, update for PowerPoint 2013 (KB4493169)

Microsoft Office 2010:

ProductKnowledge Base article title and number
Excel 2010Description of the security update for Excel 2010: February 9, 2021 (KB4493222)
Office 2010February 2, 2021, update for Office 2010 (KB4493180)
PowerPoint 2010February 2, 2021, update for PowerPoint 2010 (KB4493179)

Microsoft SharePoint Server 2019:

ProductKnowledge Base article title and number
Office Online ServerDescription of the security update for Office Online Server: February 9, 2021 (KB4493192)
SharePoint Server 2019Description of the security update for SharePoint Server 2019: February 9, 2021 (KB4493194)
SharePoint Server 2019 Language PackFebruary 9, 2021, update for SharePoint Server 2019 Language Pack (KB4493193)

Microsoft SharePoint Server 2016:

ProductKnowledge Base article title and number
SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016Description of the security update for SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016: February 9, 2021 (KB4493195)

Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013:

ProductKnowledge Base article title and number
Office Web Apps Server 2013Description of the security update for Office Web Apps Server 2013: February 9, 2021 (KB4493204)
Project Server 2013February 9, 2021, cumulative update for Project Server 2013 (KB4493207)
SharePoint Enterprise Server 2013February 9, 2021, cumulative update for SharePoint Enterprise Server 2013 (KB4493209)
SharePoint Foundation 2013Description of the security update for SharePoint Foundation 2013: February 9, 2021 (KB4493210)
SharePoint Foundation 2013February 9, 2021, cumulative update for SharePoint Foundation 2013 (KB4493205)

Microsoft SharePoint Server 2010:

ProductKnowledge Base article title and number
Project Server 2010February 9, 2021, update for Project Server 2010 (KB4475537)
Project Server 2010February 9, 2021, cumulative update for Project Server 2010 (KB4493217)
SharePoint Foundation 2010Description of the security update for SharePoint Foundation 2010: February 9, 2021 (KB4493223)
SharePoint Server 2010February 9, 2021, cumulative update for SharePoint Server 2010 (KB4493220)
SharePoint Server 2010February 9, 2021, update for SharePoint Server 2010 (KB4493212)
SharePoint Server 2010 Office Web AppsFebruary 9, 2021, update for SharePoint Server 2010 Office Web Apps (KB4493219)

Unboxing – PatchMyPC Swag

Patch My PC (PMPC) has become a household name in the Information Technology industry, particularly for those of us involved with managing 3rd party application patching with System Center Configuration Manager (ConfigMgr/SCCM) and Microsoft Intune. I’ll share my reviews on PMPC in later blog posts but in so many words, it’s an amazing product. In the meantime, if you have any questions, let me know.

This post is to share my excitement for the swag I received from PMPC in appreciation for my strong recommendations and advocacy, not only for the rock solid solution but for the high quality customer service, technical support, and seriousness of listening to their customers for feedback and product improvements. Check out the unboxing video of the thoughtful gifts I received which I will definitely use.

Thank you Justin Chalfant and Patch My PC. I love my gifts.

Adobe Flash End-of-Life and How To Uninstall

Adobe Flash Player went out of support as of December 31, 2020. For more information, see the Adobe Flash Player EOL General Information Page.

Microsoft has released update KB4577586, which is named “Update for the removal of Adobe Flash Player: October 27, 2020“. This update removes Adobe Flash from all Windows 10 and Windows Server systems. Please note: Once this update has been installed, it cannot be removed. Also, this update will only uninstall the ActiveX version of Adobe Flash, and not those installed via other mechanisms.

This update is currently not available in Windows Server Update Service (WSUS), and therefore is only available via the Microsoft Update Catalog. Microsoft states that it will be made available in early 2021.

Manual Installation:
You can install this update manually on systems running Windows 10 or server OS such as Windows Server 2012, 2012 R2, 2016, and 2019 by downloading the update using the Microsoft Update Catalog portal, and selecting the appropriate OS for your system.

Deployment Using WSUS/ConfigMgr:
To deploy this update to multiple systems, you will need to use WSUS to import the update.
1. Launch the WSUS console, expand your server name, then click on Updates in the left-hand pane.
2. In the right-hand Actions pane, click on Import Updates. This will launch the Microsoft Update Catalog in your default browser.

3. In the Microsoft Update Catalog portal, click in the Search box on the top right hand side, and type KB4577586, and click Search.

4. Select the update for the desired OS types, and click on the Add button. This will add the updates to the basket.

5. Click on view basket on the top right-hand side of the page, which is located right below the search box. You will find all the updates you have added to be imported. Make sure that the checkbox for “Import directly into Windows Server Update Services” is selected, and then click the Import button. A window will open to show the import progress and when completed, the updates will be in WSUS.

In case you run into the following failed import state, you will need to add a fix in the registry.

By clicking on the red button labeled “Failed“, you will see it mentions the error number 80131509 with a description as seen in the image below.

To fix the error, launch the registry console by running regedit on the server.
Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\.NETFramework\v4.0.30319.

Create a new DWORD (32-bit) key, and specify the name as SchUseStrongCrypto and apply the value as 1. Then, restart the server.

Update With ConfigMgr:
If you use ConfigMgr to manage and deploy your Windows Updates, you will need to run a Software Update sync from the ConfigMgr console to pull in the recently imported updates from WSUS.

In the ConfigMgr console, under the Software Library node, go to Software Updates > All Software Updates. To synchronize updates, you can either click the Synchronize Software Updates button on the top left-hand of the console or right-click on “All Software Updates, and select “Synchronize Software Updates” from the pop-out menu.

On successful completion of the software update sync, you will find the update for KB4577586 under “All Software Updates”. At this point, you will need to download the updates into a deployment package, and then deploy the updates to the device collections.

I will add the steps and screen captures to show how to download and deploy the updates using ConfigMgr in my next update or revision of this blog post. Stay tuned.

The resources below are other options available to uninstall using PowerShell scripts. These were written by my friend Ben Whitmore aka ByteBen. He uses the application method instead of the software updates method to uninstall Adobe Flash from systems using the scripts he wrote. Check it out:

1. How to Uninstall Adobe Flash Player from Windows 10 with ConfigMgr
2. Deploy the Update for Removal of Adobe Flash Player (KB4577586) using Intune

Here’s a YouTube episode on Namaste Techies covering all about Adobe Flash removal, including demos and useful tips. Please like and subscribe to the channel. Thanks.


January 2021 – Microsoft Patch Tuesday and Other Patches

Microsoft has released fixes for 83 vulnerabilities, with ten updates classified as Critical and 73 as Important.

Windows 10 Updates for January 2021:

  • KB4598242 (OS Builds 19041.746 and 19042.746) for Windows 10 version 20H2/2004
  • KB4598229 (OS Build 18363.1316) for Windows 10, version 1909
  • KB4598230 (OS Build 17763.1697) for Windows 10 version 1809
  • KB4598245 (OS Build 17134.1967) for Windows 10 version 1803
  • KB4599208 (OS Build 15063.2614) for Windows 10 version 1703
  • KB4598243 (OS Build 14393.4169) for Windows 10 version 1607
  • KB4598231 (OS Build 10240.18818) for Windows 10, initial release

Additional January 2021 Patching Resources:

On January 12, 2021 (Pacific Time), Microsoft released security updates affecting the following Microsoft products:

Product FamilyMaximum SeverityMaximum ImpactAssociated KB Articles and/or Support Webpages
Windows 10 v20H2, v2004, v1909, v1809, and v1803CriticalRemote Code ExecutionWindows 10 v2004 and Windows 10 v20H2: 4598242 Windows 10 v1909: 4598229 Windows 10 v1809: 4598230 Windows 10 v1803: 4598245
Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2016, and Server Core installations (2019, 2016, v20H2, v2004, v1909)CriticalRemote Code ExecutionWindows Server 2019: 4598230 Windows Server 2016: 4598243 Windows Server v2004 and Windows Server v20H2: 4598242 Windows Server v1909: 4598229
Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 R2, and Windows Server 2012CriticalRemote Code ExecutionWindows 8.1 and Windows Server 2012 R2 Monthly Rollup: 4598285 Windows 8.1 and Windows Server 2012 R2 Security Only: 4598275 Windows Server 2012 Monthly Rollup: 4598278 Windows Server 2012 Security Only: 4598297
Microsoft Office-related softwareImportantRemote Code ExecutionKB Articles associated with Microsoft Office-related software: 4493156, 4486736, 4486755, 4486759, 4486762, 4486764, 4493142, 4493143, 4493145, 4493160, 4493165, 4493168, 4493171, 4493176, 4493181, 4493183, and 4493186
Microsoft SharePoint-related softwareImportantRemote Code ExecutionKB Articles associated with Microsoft SharePoint-related software: 4486683, 4486724, 4493161, 4493162, 4493163, 4493167, 4493175, 4493178, and 4493187
Microsoft .NET-related softwareImportantDenial of ServiceFind details on security updates for .NET Framework-related software in the Security Update Guide: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide
Microsoft SQL Server-related softwareImportantElevation of PrivilegeKB Articles associated with Microsoft SQL Server-related software: 4583456, 4583457, 4583458, 4583459, 4583460, 4583461, 4583462, 4583463, and 4583465
Microsoft Visual Studio-related softwareImportantRemote Code ExecutionKB Articles associated with Microsoft Visual Studio-related software: 4584787
Microsoft Malware Protection EngineCriticalRemote Code ExecutionFind details for security updates for the Microsoft Malware Protection Engine in the Security Update Guide: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide

Notes:

  • The summary above is an overview of updates for the most recent versions of commonly used software.
  • Updates for older versions, apps, and open source software may not be listed.
  • Updates may have been added or removed from the release after this content was finalized.
  • Find details for all updates in the monthly release in the Security Update Guide: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide
  • For additional details, see the release notes at: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/releaseNote/2021-Jan  

Security vulnerability overview:

Below is a summary showing the number of vulnerabilities addressed in this release, broken down by product/component and by impact.

Vulnerability DetailsRCEEOPIDSFBDOSSPFTMPPublicly DisclosedKnown ExploitMax CVSS
Windows 10 v20H2 & Windows Server v20H21331106200108.8
Windows 10 v2004 & Windows Server v20041331106200108.8
Windows 10 v1909 & Windows Server v1909133086200108.8
Windows 10 v1809 & Windows Server 2019133086100108.8
Windows 10 v1803133076100108.8
Windows Server 2016132775200108.8
Windows 8.1 & Server 2012 R2131764200108.8
Windows Server 2012131752100108.8
Microsoft Office-related software5000000007.8
Microsoft SharePoint-related software4200021008.8
Microsoft SQL Server-related software0100000008.8
Microsoft Visual Studio-related software1200100007.8
Microsoft .NET-related software0000100007.5
Microsoft Malware Protection Engine1000000017.8
RCE = Remote Code Execution | EOP = Elevation of Privilege | ID = Information Disclosure | SFB = Security Feature Bypass | DOS = Denial of Service | SPF = Spoofing | TMP = Tampering

Notes: 

  • Vulnerabilities that overlap components may be represented more than once in the table.
  • The summary above is an overview of updates for commonly used software. Updates for older versions, apps, and open source software may not be listed.
  • Updates may have been added or removed from the release after this content was finalized.
  • Find details for all updates in the monthly release in the Security Update Guide: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide
  • For additional details, see the release notes at: https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/releaseNote/2021-Jan  

Resources for deploying updates to remote devices:

With so many people working remotely, it is a good time to review guidance on deploying security updates to remote devices, such as desktops, laptops, and tablets. Here are some resources to answer questions pertaining to deploying updates to remote devices.

Part 1: Helping businesses rapidly set up to work securely from personal PCs and mobiles
Part 2: Helping IT send and provision business PCs at home to work securely during COVID-19
Part 3: Manage work devices at home during Covid-19 using Configuration Manager
Part 4: Managing remote machines with cloud management gateway (CMG)
Part 5: Managing Patch Tuesday with Configuration Manager in a remote work world

See also:
Mastering​ Configuration Manager Bandwidth limitations for VPN connected Clients

Vulnerability details for the current month:

Below are summaries for some of the security vulnerabilities in this release. These specific vulnerabilities were selected from the larger set of vulnerabilities in the release for one or more of the following reasons: 1) We received inquiries regarding the vulnerability; 2) the vulnerability may have received attention in the trade press; or 3) the vulnerability is potentially more impactful than others in the release. Because we do not provide summaries for every vulnerability in the release, you should review the content in the Security Update Guide for information not provided in these summaries.

Notes on details in the vulnerability summaries:

Attack VectorThis metric reflects the context by which vulnerability exploitation is possible. The Base Score increases the more remote (logically, and physically) an attacker can be in order to exploit the vulnerable component.
Attack ComplexityThis metric describes the conditions beyond the attacker’s control that must exist in order to exploit the vulnerability. Such conditions may require the collection of more information about the target or computational exceptions. The assessment of this metric excludes any requirements for user interaction in order to exploit the vulnerability. If a specific configuration is required for an attack to succeed, the Base metrics should be scored assuming the vulnerable component is in that configuration.
Privileges RequiredThis metric describes the level of privileges an attacker must possess before successfully exploiting the vulnerability.
User InteractionThis metric captures the requirement for a user, other than the attacker, to participate in the successful compromise the vulnerable component. This metric determines whether the vulnerability can be exploited solely at the will of the attacker, or whether a separate user (or user-initiated process) must participate in some manner.
CVE-2021-1674Windows Remote Desktop Protocol Core Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability
ImpactSecurity Feature Bypass
SeverityImportant
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Base Score8.8
Attack VectorNetwork
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredLow
User InteractionNone
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareAll supported versions of Windows
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-1674
CVE-2021-1673Remote Procedure Call Runtime Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityCritical
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Base Score8.8
Attack VectorNetwork
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredLow
User InteractionNone
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareAll supported versions of Windows
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-1673
CVE-2021-1643HEVC Video Extensions Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityCritical
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Base Score7.8
Attack VectorLocal
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredNone
User InteractionRequired
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareHEVC Video Extensions
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-1643
CVE-2021-1648Microsoft splwow64 Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
ImpactElevation of Privilege
SeverityImportant
Publicly Disclosed?Yes
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Base Score7.8
Attack VectorLocal
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredLow
User InteractionNone
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareAll supported versions of Windows
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-1648
CVE-2021-1665GDI+ Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityCritical
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Base Score7.8
Attack VectorLocal
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredLow
User InteractionNone
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareAll supported versions of Windows
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-1665
CVE-2021-1705Microsoft Edge (HTML-based) Memory Corruption Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityCritical
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Base Score4.2
Attack VectorNetwork
Attack ComplexityHigh
Privileges RequiredNone
User InteractionRequired
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityLow
IntegrityLow
AvailabilityNone
Affected SoftwareMicrosoft Edge (EdgeHTML-based)
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-1705
CVE-2021-1707Microsoft SharePoint Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityImportant
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation more likely
CVSS Base Score8.8
Attack VectorNetwork
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredLow
User InteractionNone
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareMicrosoft SharePoint Foundation 2013, SharePoint Foundation 2010, SharePoint Server 2019, and SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-1707
CVE-2021-1714Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityImportant
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Base Score7.8
Attack VectorLocal
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredNone
User InteractionRequired
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareMicrosoft Excel 365 Apps for Enterprise, Excel Services, Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Office 2010, Office 2013, Office 2016, Office 2019, Office 2019 for Mac, Office Online Server, Office Web Apps Server 2013, and Office SharePoint Enterprise Server 2013.
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-1714
CVE-2021-1715Microsoft Word Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityImportant
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Base Score7.8
Attack VectorLocal
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredNone
User InteractionRequired
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareMicrosoft Excel 365 Apps for Enterprise, Word 2010, Word 2013, Word 2016, Office 2010, Office 2019, Office 2019 for Mac, Office Online Server, Office Web Apps 2010, Office Web Apps Server 2013, Office SharePoint Enterprise Server 2013, SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016, SharePoint Server 2010, and SharePoint Server 2019 
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-1715
CVE-2021-1636Microsoft SQL Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
ImpactElevation of Privilege
SeverityImportant
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?No
ExploitabilityExploitation less likely
CVSS Base Score8.8
Attack VectorNetwork
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredLow
User InteractionNone
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareMicrosoft SQL Server 2012, SQL Server 2014, SQL Server 2016, SQL Server 2017, and SQL Server 2019
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-1636
CVE-2021-1647Microsoft Defender Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
ImpactRemote Code Execution
SeverityCritical
Publicly Disclosed?No
Known Exploits?Yes
ExploitabilityExploitation detected
CVSS Base Score7.8
Attack VectorLocal
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges RequiredLow
User InteractionNone
ScopeUnchanged
ConfidentialityHigh
IntegrityHigh
AvailabilityHigh
Affected SoftwareMicrosoft Security Essentials, System Center 2012 R2, System Center Endpoint Protection, Windows Defender
More Informationhttps://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2021-1647 

Disclosure: Source for the info below:

List of patched Office security vulnerabilities

Office security updates published as part of the January 2021 Patch Tuesday address bugs exposing Windows systems running vulnerable Click to Run and Microsoft Installer (.msi)-based editions of Microsoft Office products to remote code execution (RCE) attacks.

Microsoft rated the six RCE bugs patched this month as Important severity issues since they could enable attackers to execute arbitrary code in the context of the currently logged-in user.

TagCVE IDCVE TitleSeverity
Microsoft OfficeCVE-2021-1713Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft OfficeCVE-2021-1714Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft OfficeCVE-2021-1711Microsoft Office Remote Code Execution VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft OfficeCVE-2021-1715Microsoft Word Remote Code Execution VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft OfficeCVE-2021-1716Microsoft Word Remote Code Execution VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft Office SharePointCVE-2021-1712Microsoft SharePoint Elevation of Privilege VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft Office SharePointCVE-2021-1707Microsoft SharePoint Server Remote Code Execution VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft Office SharePointCVE-2021-1718Microsoft SharePoint Server Tampering VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft Office SharePointCVE-2021-1717Microsoft SharePoint Spoofing VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft Office SharePointCVE-2021-1719Microsoft SharePoint Elevation of Privilege VulnerabilityImportant
Microsoft Office SharePointCVE-2021-1641Microsoft SharePoint Spoofing VulnerabilityImportant

January 2021 Microsoft Office security updates

Microsoft Office security updates are delivered through the Microsoft Update platform and via the Download Center.

Further information about each of them is available within the knowledge base articles linked below.

To download the January 2021 Microsoft Office security updates, you have to click on the corresponding knowledge base article below and then scroll down to the ‘How to download and install the update‘ section.

Microsoft Office 2016

ProductKnowledge Base article title and number
Excel 2016Security update for Excel 2016 (KB4493165)
Office 2016Security update for Office 2016 (KB4493168)
Office 2016Security update for Office 2016 (KB4486755)
Word 2016Security update for Word 2016 (KB4493156)


Microsoft Office 2013

ProductKnowledge Base article title and number
Excel 2013Security update for Excel 2013 (KB4493176)
Office 2013Security update for Office 2013 (KB4486762)
Office 2013Security update for Office 2013 (KB4486759)
Word 2013Security update for Word 2013 (KB4486764)


Microsoft Office 2010

ProductKnowledge Base article title and number
Excel 2010Security update for Excel 2010 (KB4493186)
Office 2010Security update for Office 2010 (KB4493143)
Office 2010Security update for Office 2010 (KB4493142)
Office 2010Security update for Office 2010 (KB4493181)
Word 2010Security update for Word 2010 (KB4493145)


Microsoft SharePoint Server 2019

ProductKnowledge Base article title and number
Office Online ServerSecurity update for Office Online Server (KB4493160)
SharePoint Server 2019Security update for SharePoint Server 2019 (KB4493162)
SharePoint Server 2019 Language PackSecurity update for SharePoint Server 2019 Language Pack (KB4493161)


Microsoft SharePoint Server 2016

ProductKnowledge Base article title and number
SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016Security update for SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016 (KB4493163)
SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016Security update for SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016 (KB4493167)


Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013

ProductKnowledge Base article title and number
Office Web Apps Server 2013Security update for Office Web Apps Server 2013 (KB4493171)
Project Server 2013Cumulative update for Project Server 2013 (KB4493173)
SharePoint Enterprise Server 2013Security update for SharePoint Enterprise Server 2013 (KB4486724)
SharePoint Enterprise Server 2013Security update for SharePoint Enterprise Server 2013 (KB4486683)
SharePoint Enterprise Server 2013Cumulative update for SharePoint Enterprise Server 2013 (KB4493150)
SharePoint Foundation 2013Security update for SharePoint Foundation 2013 (KB4493175)
SharePoint Foundation 2013Cumulative update for SharePoint Foundation 2013 (KB4493172)


Microsoft SharePoint Server 2010

ProductKnowledge Base article title and number
Project Server 2010Cumulative update for Project Server 2010 (KB4493182)
SharePoint Foundation 2010Security update for SharePoint Foundation 2010 (KB4493187)
SharePoint Server 2010Security update for SharePoint Server 2010 (KB4493178)
SharePoint Server 2010Security update for SharePoint Server 2010 (KB4486736)
SharePoint Server 2010Cumulative update for SharePoint Server 2010 (KB4493184)
SharePoint Server 2010 Office Web AppsSecurity update for SharePoint Server 2010 Office Web Apps (KB4493183)

Windows PXE Boot Issues – KB4493467 (April 9, 2019)

Microsoft has acknowledged an issue with PXE boot affecting Windows 8.1 and Windows Server 2012 R2 systems caused by a Security-Only update (KB4493467) released on April 9, 2019.

The Issue:

After installing this update, there may be issues using the Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) to start a device from a Windows Deployment Services (WDS) server configured to use Variable Window Extension. This may cause the connection to the WDS server to terminate prematurely while downloading the image. This issue does not affect clients or devices that are not using Variable Window Extension.

The Workaround:

To mitigate the issue, disable the Variable Window Extension on WDS server using one of the following options:

Option 1:
Open an Administrator Command prompt and type the following:

Wdsutil /Set-TransportServer /EnableTftpVariableWindowExtension:No

Option 2:
Use the Windows Deployment Services UI.

  1. Open Windows Deployment Services from Windows Administrative Tools.
  2. Expand Servers and right-click a WDS server.
  3. Open its properties and clear the Enable Variable Window Extension box on the TFTP tab.

Option 3:
Set the following registry value to 0:

HKLM\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\WDSServer\Providers\WDSTFTP\EnableVariableWindowExtension”.

Restart the WDSServer service after disabling the Variable Window Extension.

Microsoft is working on a resolution and will provide an update in an upcoming release.

Windows 10 Automatically Uninstalls Problematic Software Updates

Patch Management is an important role of a Sysadmin in the Enterprise, because securing endpoints with security updates to keep systems secure and functional, receive fixes that resolve issues, and patch security holes is highly important. However, with the frequency of security updates which are released these days, patch management tasks feels like a full-time job!

For the most part, monthly patches are straight forward, however in recent months, they have been problematic where they have caused system crashes, blue screens, application functionality issues, and introduced other bugs. Some faulty patches are quickly reversed or rectified by Microsoft, while others go unfixed for a longer duration causing further duress and downtime in many organizations. This has been a major pain point for Sysadmins in the field.

Well, we may have some reprieve from these buggy patches. Microsoft has announced that it will start uninstalling problematic patches automatically from Windows 10 systems when it detects a startup issue due to incompatibility or issues stemming from a recently installed patch. The following notification will be presented:
“We removed some recently installed updates to recover your device from a startup failure.”

According to this KB4492307 posted by Microsoft, the problematic patch will not be reinstalled for 30 days to allow Microsoft and it’s partners to investigate and fix the issues. This process seems like a good proactive approach by Microsoft to get a handle of buggy patches, however more information is needed in terms of how this will work with detection, deployments, and compliance of these patches using ConfigMgr and WSUS as mechanisms for patch management in the enterprise. Time will tell, we hope!

Windows 7 Network Controller Issues – KB4338818 (July 2018)

The July 2018 Windows Updates for Windows 7 SP1 and Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1 introduces a bug that could cause the network interface controller to stop working. The update referenced is KB4338818.

In case your systems run into this issue, the workaround from Microsoft is to do the following:

Please use your best judgement and evaluate the risks of applying this update to your Windows 7 SP1 and Windows Server 2008 R2 systems.

** Update **
According to an IT Pro who opened a support case with Microsoft, this is the information provided at this time:

“Regarding the known issue in the July monthly rollup about the network interface controller that will stop working. We are still looking at the data gathered from multiple customers and we do not have a list third party software that is causing the issue. What we do know until now, is that the issue is reproducing mainly on VM over VMware.”

ConfigMgr 1710 Hotfix Rollup (KB4057517)

ConfigMgr Current Branch version 1710 now has a hotfix (KB4057517) available which addresses some issues, which you can read up here. The following are the fixes resolved with this hotfix (there are 13 of them):

  • Clients who use Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) for authentication do not successfully communicate with a management point
  • The Configuration Manager console may terminate unexpectedly after you browse to a content location in the Office 365 Client Installation wizard
  • Download of express updates may fail on Windows 10 clients because of an issue that affects files in temporary and cache folders
  • Configuration Manager current branch, version 1710 clients are not upgraded on systems that are running Windows Server 2008 SP2. The client Setup program, Ccmsetup.exe, terminates unexpectedly
  • The Office 365 Application Installation Wizard may try to download content from an incorrect channel. This causes download failures
  • The fallback time that is configured for content is not honored if distribution points or their content are inaccessible
  • The Client Notification Restart request is processed incorrectly by remote management points. This causes a .bld notification file to be left in the \MP\Outboxes\bgb.box folder on the remote management point
  • Retrying a large single-file download, such as an Office 365 update file, may fail on a site server
  • The Persist content in the client cache setting on Package Properties is not honored by clients
  • Decommission-related State messages from co-managed client computers are processed incorrectly
  • State messages sent by Azure AD users may not be processed
  • If a Configuration Manager client restarts during the process of retrying a task sequence policy download, that task sequence does not run automatically after the restart
  • Conditional access policies may block access to Office 365 applications for domain-joined devices after migrating to Intune standalone

Here are the steps on how to install this hotfix. You will find it available in the ConfigMgr console under Administration > Updates and Servicing. If you don’t see it, click on Check for Updates in the menu ribbon.

Right-click on Configuration Manager 1710 Hotfix Rollup (KB4057517) and click on Install Update Pack. I recommend that you run the prerequisite check first to make sure there are not issues reported with your site server.

Click Next and select the checkbox if you want to ignore the prerequisite check warning.

Pick your option to validate or not to validate the upgrade against a collection. I generally tend to select Validate in pre-production collection and choose one of my test collections for the first phase of the upgrade.

Select the license terms and click Next.

Click Next to confirm the settings.

Click Close.

You can now monitor the status of the upgrade under Monitoring > Updates and Servicing Status. Then select the update package name and click on Show Status in the menu ribbon.

The window below will show the stages of the upgrade process where you can monitor it’s progress. If there are any issues, you will see it listed here with a warning and the details provided in the description box in the bottom of the window.

Upon successful completion of the hotfix installation, you will be presented with the pop-up window as seen below to indicate a console upgrade from version 5.0.0.8577.1100 to 5.0.0.8577.1108 is available.

You can verify the console upgrade in the About System Center Configuration Manager drop down menu from the console.
Version 1710
Console version: 5.0.0.8577.1108
Site version: 5.0.8577.1000

Once you are comfortable with the client upgrade on your test collection which you selected during the validate in pre-production collection phase, you can deploy the client upgrade to all clients in the hierarchy by selecting the Promote Pre-production Client option as seen below.

Your ConfigMgr site is now upgraded with the KB4057517 hotfix.

 

Malware Isn’t Just For Windows Anymore – Fruitfly Is Hitting Macs Hard

This year’s cyber threat epidemic started with Windows, then spread over to Linux and third-party apps, and now is here for Macs. While the latest malware Fruitfly is targeting Mac computers, its malware library is also capable of running on Linux systems. 

Though it was recently found conducting surveillance attacks, it’s possible Fruitfly has been infecting Mac systems for over two years. It appears that the base code of Fruitfly is over a decade old, which begs the question: how can decade-old malware start breaching systems now? Haven’t our systems been updated over the last ten years?

It seems the Fruitfly developers have reused old code and modified it to give this malware extra power and capabilities. This cross-platform malware uses old APIs, but if there are any changes in the API, it will break the legitimate program to maintain reverse compatibility as long as possible. Fruitfly may have escaped detection for a long time because it appears that its creators have intentionally limited how many computers it targets. And since Mac systems don’t usually face as many threats as Windows, many administrators have been more lenient with patching their Macs, leaving them vulnerable to attacks such as Fruitfly.

You can identify Fruitfly infections by detecting suspicious network traffic. A file integrity monitor or log analyzer can help you identify an attack on your network, but a breach could be avoided altogether by keeping your systems up-to-date. Since most enterprises comprise different operating systems, it isn’t advisable to employ a separate patching tool for Windows, Mac, and Linux. The smarter alternative would be for an enterprise to employ a multi-platform patch management solution that helps update every computer from a single console. However, there are only a few solutions on the market that even support third-party patching, and even less that provide complete control over all enterprise devices, including mobile devices

These last few months have already given security professionals a lot to cover, and since cyber attacks are evolving at rapid rate, its high time enterprises maintain endpoint security by keeping their systems up-to-date. The best way to do this is to employ a patch management solution to stay safe from future ransomware and malware. One such solution is ManageEngine’s Desktop Central.

Desktop Central is integrated desktop and mobile device management software. This multi-platform solution helps automate your overall patch management process, and also has some other enhanced features to help secure your networkDownload ManageEngine Desktop Central Now and keep your Windows, Mac, Linux and all your third party applications completely safe and up-to-date. 

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