CVE-2021-31201
Published: November 3, 2021
Official Description
Microsoft Enhanced Cryptographic Provider contains an unspecified vulnerability that allows for privilege escalation.
CISA KEV Advisory
Microsoft Enhanced Cryptographic Provider Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
Microsoft Enhanced Cryptographic Provider contains an unspecified vulnerability that allows for privilege escalation.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
This high-severity unspecified vulnerability in Microsoft Enhanced Cryptographic Provider allows for privilege escalation. Its inclusion in CISA's KEV catalog and an EPSS score of 0.01537 indicate confirmed exploitation and a notable likelihood of future exploitation.
This vulnerability has been observed in active exploitation in the wild, confirming its use by attackers. No specific exploit details are provided.
Apply the latest security updates from Microsoft to address this privilege escalation vulnerability. Ensure all system components are regularly patched to prevent exploitation.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2021-31201 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
CISA has added CVE-2021-31201 to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. U.S. federal agencies are required to patch this within the mandated timeframe, and all organizations should treat remediation as urgent.
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (1)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2021-31201 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
- !CISA KEV: Federal agencies must patch per BOD 22-01 timeline
- !Active exploitation confirmed — treat as P1