CVE-2023-36884
Published: July 17, 2023
Official Description
Microsoft Windows Search contains an unspecified vulnerability that could allow an attacker to evade Mark of the Web (MOTW) defenses via a specially crafted malicious file, leading to remote code execution.
CISA KEV Advisory
Microsoft Windows Search Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
Microsoft Windows Search contains an unspecified vulnerability that could allow an attacker to evade Mark of the Web (MOTW) defenses via a specially crafted malicious file, leading to remote code execution.
Apply mitigations per vendor instructions or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable.
Risk Analysis
This vulnerability in Microsoft Windows Search allows attackers to bypass security features designed to prevent malicious files from executing, potentially leading to remote code execution. The high EPSS score of 0.93220 indicates a very high likelihood of exploitation, and its presence in CISA's KEV confirms it is being actively exploited.
Active exploitation of this vulnerability has been observed in the wild, and it is listed in CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities Catalog. Attackers are actively leveraging this flaw.
Apply the latest security updates from Microsoft to patch this vulnerability. Ensure all systems are kept up-to-date with the most recent patches to protect against known exploited flaws.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2023-36884 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-2023-36884 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-2023-36884 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