Microsoft Office Memory Corruption Vulnerability

CVE-2018-0802

What is CVE-2018-0802?

CVE-2018-0802 is a critical memory corruption vulnerability found in Microsoft Office products, specifically affecting versions 2007 through 2016 of the software. This vulnerability arises from the way the Equation Editor handles objects in memory, allowing for potential remote code execution. If successfully exploited, attackers could execute arbitrary code on the affected system, leading to unauthorized access and control. This represents a severe risk for organizations, as Microsoft Office is widely employed across various industries for essential document processing tasks.

Technical Details

This vulnerability exposes Microsoft Office to memory corruption issues linked to the Equation Editor feature. The flaw enables an attacker to manipulate the application’s memory management, paving the way for remote code execution. When a user opens a specially crafted file containing malicious equations, the vulnerability could be triggered, allowing the attacker to execute code with the same user privileges as the victim. This exploit could lead to significant system compromises or data breaches, particularly if an affected user has elevated privileges.

Potential Impact of CVE-2018-0802

1. Unauthorized Remote Code Execution: Successful exploitation of this vulnerability can allow attackers to run arbitrary code on the victim's machine, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data and systems.

2. Data Breaches: As attackers gain control over the system, they may exfiltrate sensitive information, resulting in significant data breaches affecting the organization’s reputation and compliance with data protection regulations.

3. Widespread Malware Distribution: Given that Microsoft Office is extensively used in corporate environments, the vulnerability could be leveraged to install malware, including ransomware, across networks, leading to widespread operational disruption and financial losses.

References