CVE-2024-29988
Published: April 30, 2024
Official Description
Microsoft SmartScreen Prompt contains a security feature bypass vulnerability that allows an attacker to bypass the Mark of the Web (MotW) feature. This vulnerability can be chained with CVE-2023-38831 and CVE-2024-21412 to execute a malicious file.
CISA KEV Advisory
Microsoft SmartScreen Prompt Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability
Microsoft SmartScreen Prompt contains a security feature bypass vulnerability that allows an attacker to bypass the Mark of the Web (MotW) feature. This vulnerability can be chained with CVE-2023-38831 and CVE-2024-21412 to execute a malicious file.
Apply mitigations per vendor instructions or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable.
Risk Analysis
This Microsoft SmartScreen Prompt vulnerability allows attackers to bypass the Mark of the Web (MotW) security feature. This flaw is critical because it can be chained with other vulnerabilities to execute malicious files, posing a significant risk to system integrity. The high EPSS score of 0.66838 and its presence in CISA's KEV indicate a high likelihood and confirmation of active exploitation.
This vulnerability is actively being exploited in the wild. It is often chained with other vulnerabilities to achieve malicious file execution.
Apply all available security updates for Microsoft SmartScreen Prompt and related components to prevent bypasses of the Mark of the Web feature. Ensure systems are regularly patched to mitigate chained exploitation risks.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2024-29988 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-2024-29988 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-2024-29988 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