CVE-2023-32049
Published: July 11, 2023
Official Description
Microsoft Windows Defender SmartScreen contains a security feature bypass vulnerability that allows an attacker to bypass the Open File - Security Warning prompt.
CISA KEV Advisory
Microsoft Windows Defender SmartScreen Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability
Microsoft Windows Defender SmartScreen contains a security feature bypass vulnerability that allows an attacker to bypass the Open File - Security Warning prompt.
Apply updates per vendor instructions or discontinue use of the product if updates are unavailable.
Risk Analysis
This vulnerability in Microsoft Windows Defender SmartScreen allows an attacker to bypass the 'Open File - Security Warning' prompt. This bypass could enable the execution of malicious files without user awareness. Its presence in CISA's KEV catalog and active exploitation indicate a high and immediate risk.
Active exploitation of this vulnerability has been observed in the wild, and it is included in CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog. This allows attackers to bypass security warnings, potentially leading to further compromise.
Apply all available security updates and patches for Microsoft Windows to address this SmartScreen bypass. Users should also exercise caution when opening files from untrusted sources, even if no warning is displayed.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2023-32049 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-2023-32049 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 (2)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2023-32049 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