A new critical Windows vulnerability has been discovered and Microsoft is acknowledging it's criticality by releasing an out-of band patch before the regular Windows update batch due Nov. 11. This security update resolves a privately reported vulnerability in the Windows Server service. The vulnerability could allow remote code execution if an affected system received a specially crafted RPC request.
In Microsoft Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows Server 2003 systems, an attacker could exploit this vulnerability without authentication to run arbitrary code. It is possible that this vulnerability could be used in the crafting of a wormable exploit. Firewall best practices and standard default firewall configurations can help protect network resources from attacks that originate outside the enterprise perimeter.
This security update is rated Critical for all supported editions of Microsoft Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, and rated Important for all supported editions of Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008.
The security update addresses the vulnerability by correcting the way that the Server service handles RPC requests.
Recommendation Microsoft recommends that customers apply the update immediately. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Related to This Security Update:
Where are the file information details? The file information details can be found in Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 958644. Is the Windows 7 Pre-Beta release affected by this vulnerability? Yes. This vulnerability was reported after the release of Windows 7 Pre-Beta. Customers running Windows 7 Pre-Beta are encouraged to download and apply the update to their systems. On Windows 7 Pre-Beta systems, the vulnerable code path is only accessible to authenticated users. This vulnerability is not liable to be triggered if the attacker is not authenticated, and therefore would be rated Important. Download the updates for your home computer or laptop from the Microsoft Update Web site now.
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