Vulnerabilities in Microsoft Windows: A CERT-In Advisory
The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has recently issued a cautionary advisory regarding several vulnerabilities identified in Microsoft Windows. These vulnerabilities affect Windows-based systems that utilize Virtualization Based Security (VBS) and Windows Backup. The versions impacted by this advisory include Windows 10, 11, and 12, along with various iterations of Windows Server.
What CERT-In Advisory Says
CERT-In's advisory highlights that “multiple vulnerabilities have been reported in Microsoft Windows which could allow an attacker to gain elevation of privilege on the targeted system.” This means that malicious actors could exploit these vulnerabilities to elevate their access rights, potentially reintroducing previously mitigated issues or circumventing VBS protections. The advisory categorizes the severity of this vulnerability as ‘medium’.
Software Affected
- Windows Server 2016 (Server Core installation)
- Windows Server 2016
- Windows 10 Version 1607 for x64-based Systems
- Windows 10 Version 1607 for 32-bit Systems
- Windows 10 for x64-based Systems
- Windows 10 for 32-bit Systems
- Windows 11 Version 24H2 for x64-based Systems
- Windows 11 Version 24H2 for ARM64-based Systems
- Windows Server 2022, 23H2 Edition (Server Core installation)
- Windows 11 Version 23H2 for x64-based Systems
- Windows 11 Version 23H2 for ARM64-based Systems
- Windows 10 Version 22H2 for 32-bit Systems
- Windows 10 Version 22H2 for ARM64-based Systems
- Windows 10 Version 22H2 for x64-based Systems
- Windows 11 Version 22H2 for x64-based Systems
- Windows 11 Version 22H2 for ARM64-based Systems
- Windows 10 Version 21H2 for x64-based Systems
- Windows 10 Version 21H2 for ARM64-based Systems
- Windows 10 Version 21H2 for 32-bit Systems
- Windows 11 version 21H2 for ARM64-based Systems
- Windows 11 version 21H2 for x64-based Systems
- Windows Server 2022 (Server Core installation)
- Windows Server 2022
- Windows Server 2019 (Server Core installation)
- Windows Server 2019
- Windows 10 Version 1809 for ARM64-based Systems
- Windows 10 Version 1809 for x64-based Systems
- Windows 10 Version 1809 for 32-bit Systems
What Should Users Do?
According to CERT-In, there are currently no patches available for this vulnerability as of the publication date. Users are therefore advised to ensure their devices are updated to the latest versions to mitigate potential risks.
The advisory underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date systems and being vigilant about security updates. While the vulnerabilities have been categorized as medium in severity, the potential for exploitation underscores the need for proactive measures. As always, staying informed and prepared is key to navigating the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats.
