CVE-2016-0185KEV · OVERDUE

Microsoft Windows Media Center Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

High · published May 11, 2016

Patch now

Confirmed exploited, and the score agrees

CVSS calls it high at 7.8. It is confirmed in active exploitation. It sits in the 99.4th percentile for exploit probability.

1633
days past CISA
deadline
CVSS v3.1
7.8
EPSS
70%
Percentile
99.4
In the wild
Confirmed
What it is

🚨 A crafty link could lead to complete chaos! This Media Center vulnerability lets attackers execute arbitrary code just by opening a specially crafted file. 🔥 Think of it like a sneaky pizza delivery that hands you a box filled with a surprise package instead of your delicious pie—once you open it, who knows what’s going to happen inside your home! With this vulnerability, a remote attacker could gain control of your system, running any code they desire. This means they could access sensitive data, install malware, or even turn your computer into a puppet for their nefarious deeds! Absolutely devastating!

Put simply

Think of it like a sneaky pizza delivery that hands you a box filled with a surprise package instead of your delicious pie—once you open it, who knows what’s going to happen inside your home! This vulnerability exists in the Media Center of Microsoft Windows Vista SP2, Windows 7 SP1, and Windows 8.1. It allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted Media Center link (.mcl file), bypassing normal security measures.

What to do

With this vulnerability, a remote attacker could gain control of your system, running any code they desire. This means they could access sensitive data, install malware, or even turn your computer into a puppet for their nefarious deeds! Absolutely devastating! To protect yourself, ensure your systems are updated to the latest Windows patches. Consider disabling Media Center if you don’t use it. Regularly review your security settings and implement firewalls to block suspicious activities. You've got this! Follow these steps and you'll keep your systems safe and sound! 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS v3.1
7.8 · HIGH
Vector
CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.69846 · 99.4th percentile
Published
2016-05-11T01:00Z
KEV added
2021-11-03 · due 2022-05-03
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 03 NOV 00:00Z
    Added to CISA KEV — remediate by May 3
    kev
  • 11 MAY 01:00Z
    Media Center in Microsoft Windows Vista SP2, Windows 7 SP1, and Windows 8.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted Media Center link…
    cvelistv5