CVE-2023-36884

CVE-2023-36884 is a significant vulnerability in the design or implementation of Microsoft Windows, Server, Office, and Outlook software. This flaw, which allows for remote code execution (RCE), has been exploited in the wild, with its technical details publicly disclosed. The vulnerabilities, including CVE-2023-36884, have been abused by the Underground ransomware, leading to serious security concerns. Notably, this vulnerability can be exploited using specially-crafted Microsoft Office documents, making it a high-risk issue. Microsoft has taken steps to mitigate the impact of CVE-2023-36884. A defense-in-depth update was released for Microsoft Office that halts the attack chain leading to the Windows Search security feature bypass vulnerability. While not a patch, this update significantly reduces the potential for successful exploitation of the vulnerability. An additional pre-patch mitigation was issued to prevent the vulnerability from being further abused by cybercriminals, including Russian spies. Despite these mitigations, organizations are urged to remain vigilant against potential threats associated with CVE-2023-36884. Monitoring for first research or news stories, as well as gaining additional reference sources and context over time, can aid in threat assessment and analysis. Further information on protection against this potential infection vector can be found in the outbreak alert, and organizations are advised to install all available updates to bolster their defenses against this and other related vulnerabilities.