CVE-2021-1730 is a vulnerability that affects the Microsoft Windows operating system. The flaw allows an attacker to bypass security protections put in place to prevent arbitrary code execution. They can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a specially designed file, which when opened, allows them to run code with elevated privileges on the affected system. This means that attackers can gain control of a compromised system, steal sensitive information, or install malware.
The vulnerability was discovered and reported to Microsoft by researchers at Kaspersky in January 2021. Microsoft released a patch to address the issue as part of its February 2021 Patch Tuesday updates. The vulnerability affected various versions of Windows, including Windows 10, Windows Server 2016, and Windows Server 2019. It was rated as "Important" in severity, which indicates it could have had severe consequences if not addressed promptly.
Users are advised to ensure their systems are up-to-date with the latest patches and security updates to protect against this vulnerability. Security best practices such as avoiding opening files from untrusted sources and using anti-virus software can also help mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability. CVE-2021-1730 highlights the importance of regularly updating software and staying aware of potential security vulnerabilities.