CVE-2022-21971KEV · OVERDUE

Windows Runtime Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

High · published February 9, 2022

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 99.0th percentile for exploit probability.

1507
days past CISA
deadline
CVSS v3.1
7.8
EPSS
54%
Percentile
99.0
In the wild
Confirmed
What it is

🚨 A remote code execution vulnerability in Windows Runtime is out there, and it’s ready to be exploited with just a crafty connection! ⚡ This vulnerability is like a concierge handing out master keys to any guest who asks, allowing access to rooms they shouldn’t be in. If the wrong person picks up the phone, they could stroll right into sensitive areas of the system without anyone batting an eye. If exploited, attackers could execute arbitrary code on affected systems, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This means they could steal sensitive information, install malware, or disrupt operations—an absolutely devastating scenario for any organization.

Put simply

This vulnerability is like a concierge handing out master keys to any guest who asks, allowing access to rooms they shouldn’t be in. If the wrong person picks up the phone, they could stroll right into sensitive areas of the system without anyone batting an eye. The CVE-2022-21971 vulnerability allows attackers to execute remote code by sending specially crafted requests to the Windows Runtime, which may not be properly validated. This flaw can lead to a complete takeover of the system if the attacker gains access.

What to do

If exploited, attackers could execute arbitrary code on affected systems, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This means they could steal sensitive information, install malware, or disrupt operations—an absolutely devastating scenario for any organization. Immediately apply the latest security patches provided by Microsoft to mitigate this risk. Staying updated on system security is crucial, so ensure you’re running Windows with the latest updates. Additionally, consider reviewing your network security settings to limit exposure. You’ve got this! Follow these steps, and you’ll bolster your defenses against this threat in no time! 🛡️

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/E:U/RL:O/RC:C
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.53781 · 99.0th percentile
Published
2022-02-09T16:36Z
KEV added
2022-08-18 · due 2022-09-08
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 18 AUG 00:00Z
    Added to CISA KEV — remediate by Sep 8
    kev
  • 09 FEB 16:36Z
    Windows Runtime Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
    cvelistv5