Microsoft’s May 2024 Patch Tuesday Addresses 3 Zero-Days, 61 Vulnerabilities

In Microsoft’s May 2024 Patch Tuesday, the company reported significant updates aimed at enhancing the security of various systems by addressing a total of 61 vulnerabilities. This update is crucial, as it includes patches for one critical vulnerability and three zero-day vulnerabilities, with two of these zero-days actively exploited in the wild. The updates also encompass earlier fixes for six Microsoft Edge vulnerabilities, with two addressed on May 2nd and four on May 10th. 

What are the zero-day vulnerabilities mentioned in Microsoft’s May 2024 Patch Tuesday?  

1. CVE-2024-30040 – Windows MSHTML Platform Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability: This vulnerability poses a significant risk because it allows attackers to bypass security features. Attackers exploit this flaw by deceiving a user into loading a malicious file, which does not necessarily require the user to open or click the file directly. The exploitation methods often involve social engineering tactics through emails or instant messaging, making it critical for users to be cautious about unsolicited messages and attachments. 
2. CVE-2024-30051 – Windows DWM Core Library Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability: This vulnerability is particularly alarming due to its potential to allow an attacker to gain SYSTEM privileges on a compromised system. The exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to significant control over the affected systems, thereby posing a severe security threat. 

Microsoft’s Advisory and Patch Details 

While Microsoft’s advisory currently provides limited detailed information about these vulnerabilities, it is imperative for IT administrators and security professionals to monitor any updates or detailed disclosures from Microsoft. The full list of vulnerabilities, along with their descriptions and the affected systems, can be accessed through Microsoft’s official security updates page.  

What is Nuspire doing? 

In response to these updates, Nuspire has promptly applied the patches as recommended by Microsoft. Additionally, Nuspire’s cybersecurity team is actively engaged in threat hunting to detect any signs of compromise within client environments. This proactive approach is crucial in identifying and mitigating potential threats before they can cause significant damage. 

What should I do? 

Organizations are advised to apply the Microsoft May 2024 Patch Tuesday updates immediately to mitigate the vulnerabilities addressed in this release. Due to their critical nature and active exploitation in the wild, the patches for the actively exploited zero-days, CVE-2024-30040 and CVE-2024-30051, should be prioritized. 

• Patching Strategy: Focus on the immediate application of patches for the critical and zero-day vulnerabilities. Ensure that all systems are updated to prevent potential exploits. 
• Vigilance and Training: Educate employees about the risks of social engineering attacks. Encourage them to be vigilant about suspicious emails and messages that could be part of an exploitation attempt. 
• Review and Mitigation: For organizations that cannot immediately apply the patches, reviewing the individual CVEs listed in Microsoft’s advisory for potential workarounds and mitigation strategies is essential. This can provide temporary protection against the vulnerabilities until patches can be applied. 

Adhering to these recommendations can significantly enhance organizations’ security posture and protect their systems from potential threats associated with these vulnerabilities. 

The recent Microsoft Patch Tuesday updates underscore the essential role of strong vulnerability management. Avoid being vulnerable to unexpected security breaches and zero-day exploits. Nuspire’s Vulnerability Management Services offer your organization extensive protection with proactive scanning for vulnerabilities, systematic patch management, and customized expert recommendations to address your distinct security challenges.