CVE-2023-21554
CWE-20Published: April 11, 2023· Updated: Jun 17, 2026
Official Description
Microsoft Message Queuing (MSMQ) Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
Risk Analysis
Microsoft Message Queuing (MSMQ) is affected by a critical remote code execution vulnerability. An unauthenticated attacker can trigger this remotely to execute arbitrary code on the target system. Given the nature of the service, this poses a significant risk to affected Windows environments.
This flaw is remotely exploitable with low complexity, though there is no public exploit or CISA KEV activity reported.
Apply the relevant security patches provided by Microsoft for the affected Windows operating systems.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2023-21554 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.
The vulnerability requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns and worm-like propagation.
A successful exploit results in complete confidentiality breach (data exposure), full integrity compromise (data manipulation), availability disruption (denial of service), with a CVSS base score of 9.8.
CVSS v3.1 Vector Breakdown
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
Official Patches & Advisories
All References (2)
Quick Facts
Related CVEs (CWE-20)
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2023-21554 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts