Outlook Zero-Day Exploit

A critical new vulnerability in outlook has been discovered that allows a bad actor to bypass authentication or escalate privileges. The vulnerability impacts all versions of Windows Outlook and is considered to be a Zero-Day vulnerability. Moreover, it is also a zero-touch exploit meaning that no user interaction is required for the exploit to effectuate.

The attacker merely needs to send a specially crafted message with a pointer to a remote attacker-controlled server. Just the receipt of the message in Outlook will activate the vulnerability, the user does not even have to see or open the message.

This attack has already been seen to be actively used in-the-wild, though on a limited basis since March 14, 2023. Since many Outlook instances are integrated with Exchange, the attacker does gain access to the Exchange server attack surface and data as well.

Acreto addresses this and other Zero-Day vulnerabilities with the Ecosystem model which creates a contained environment to eliminate access to user systems for local and remote users, including their Outlook application.

The diagram below outlines how Acreto containerizes Exchange access to prevent Zero-Day outbreaks.

About Acreto

Acreto delivers full-stack cybersecurity without products, logistics or significant security expertise. It creates and consolidates the best of cybersecurity into a single plug-and-play platform with automated updates to stay ahead of threats. Acreto activates enterprise-grade security instantly, so organizations can run safely, easily, and without interruption.