CVE-2024-30103: Microsoft Outlook RCE Vulnerability

CVE-2024-30103 Overview

Microsoft Outlook Remote Code Execution Vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via network access.

Critical Impact

High likelihood of exploitation with severe confidentiality, integrity, and availability impact.

Affected Products

• Microsoft 365 Apps
• Microsoft Office
• Microsoft Outlook

Discovery Timeline

• 2024-06-11 - CVE CVE-2024-30103 published to NVD
• 2024-11-21 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2024-30103

Vulnerability Analysis

The vulnerability exists in the way Microsoft Outlook handles specially crafted email data, which can lead to remote code execution if exploited by a remote attacker.

Root Cause

An error in input validation allows arbitrary code execution through malformed email components.

Attack Vector

Exploitable through sending specially crafted email content over a network, compelling Outlook to execute arbitrary code.

# Example exploitation code (sanitized)
def exploit_outlook(payload):
    with open("payload.eml", "w") as file:
        file.write(payload)
    # Simulate sending the malicious email
    send_email(file.name)

Detection Methods for CVE-2024-30103

Indicators of Compromise

• Unusual network activity from Outlook
• Unexpected file modifications in Outlook directories
• Execution of unknown processes initiated by Outlook

Detection Strategies

Employ network traffic analysis to identify anomalous patterns typical of exploit attempts, alongside file integrity monitoring for Outlook components.

Monitoring Recommendations

Use Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools like SentinelOne to continuously monitor process execution and document access attempts for early detection of exploit activity.

How to Mitigate CVE-2024-30103

Immediate Actions Required

• Disable external content preview in Outlook
• Enforce strict email filtering with malicious content screening
• Alert all users to avoid opening suspicious emails

Patch Information

Microsoft has issued patches in the latest security update: Vendor Advisory.

Workarounds

Temporarily disable macros and ActiveX controls in Outlook settings to mitigate exploitation risk.

# Configuration example
Set-MpPreference -DisableBlockAtFirstSeen 0
Set-MpPreference -DisableScriptScanning 0