CVE-2020-0638: Microsoft Update Notification Manager Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

Vulnerability summary

CVE-2020-0638 is a high (CVSS 7.8) Link Following vulnerability in Microsoft Update Notification Manager. It is known to be exploited: CISA lists it, first on 23-05-2022. It has been used in ransomware campaigns. EPSS estimates a 2.37% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days, higher than 83.5% of scored vulnerabilities.

Timeline

1. 14-01-2020
   PublishedVulnerability first disclosed.
2. 23-05-2022
   Added to CISA KEVMicrosoft Update Notification Manager Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
3. 13-06-2022
   CISA remediation dueApply updates per vendor instructions.
4. 12-08-2026
   Last modifiedVulnerability information updated.

Description

An elevation of privilege vulnerability exists in the way the Update Notification Manager handles files.To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker would first have to gain execution on the victim system, aka 'Update Notification Manager Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability'.

• CWE-59Improper Link Resolution Before File Access ('Link Following')The product attempts to access a file based on the filename, but it does not properly prevent that filename from identifying a link or shortcut that resolves to an unintended resource.