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How to fix CVE-2024-38206 in Microsoft Copilot

"Learn about CVE-2024-38206, a critical vulnerability in Microsoft Copilot, its impact on your systems, and how to protect yourself with the latest patches and mitigation strategies."

Orani Amroussi | August 22, 2024

CVE-2024-38206 is a critical vulnerability affecting Microsoft Copilot. We’ve written about the unique risks of AI in the past, but this vulnerability, affecting potentially millions of users, is especially concerning. 

Here’s what you need to know.

TL;DR

Affected products: 

Microsoft Copilot

Product category: 

AI/LLM

Severity: 

Critical 

Type: 

Bypass Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF)

Impact: 

Information disclosure

PoC: 

No public proof-of-concept (PoC) available yet 

Exploit in the wild 

No confirmed reports of active exploitation yet 

CISA Catalog 

No 

Remediation action 

Microsoft has mitigated.

MITRE advisory 

Read more 

 

What is CVE-2024-38206?

CVE-2024-38206 is a critical vulnerability identified in Microsoft’s Copilot, a feature integrated into various Microsoft products.

In an advisory on August 6, 2024., Microsoft stated:

“An authenticated attacker can bypass Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) protection in Microsoft Copilot Studio to leak sensitive information over a network.” 

The flaw has been classified as a high-severity issue due to its potential impact and the widespread use of Microsoft products in both corporate and personal environments.

Technical details

CVE-2024-38206 specifically affects the Copilot feature, which leverages AI and machine learning to assist users in tasks such as coding, content creation, and automation.

The vulnerability arises from improper validation of user inputs, which could be exploited by an attacker to execute harmful scripts or commands. If left unpatched, this could compromise system integrity and allow attackers to manipulate or steal data.

 

Does CVE-2024-38206 affect me?

Affected systems

CVE-2024-38206 impacts several versions of Microsoft products that include the Copilot feature. Users and organizations utilizing the latest versions of Microsoft Office, GitHub Copilot, and other integrated platforms should be aware of their exposure to this vulnerability.

Specifically, systems running on Windows with Copilot integration are at risk. It is essential to check the version of your software and ensure it matches those identified as vulnerable in Microsoft’s security advisories.

Potential impact

If your system is affected by CVE-2024-38206, the potential impact could be significant. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to your system, manipulate data, or introduce malware.

For businesses, this could result in data breaches, loss of intellectual property, and damage to reputation. For individual users, the risks include theft of personal information and financial loss. Understanding whether your systems are vulnerable is the first step in mitigating these risks.

 

Has CVE-2024-38206 been actively exploited in the wild?

As of the latest reports, there have been no confirmed cases of CVE-2024-38206 being actively exploited in the wild. Microsoft has issued a statement indicating that while the vulnerability is serious, they have not observed any widespread exploitation.

However, the situation remains fluid, and it is crucial to stay informed through official channels for any updates. Security researchers are actively monitoring the situation, and organizations are encouraged to maintain vigilance.

 

How to fix CVE-2024-7589

According to Microsoft:

“This vulnerability has already been fully mitigated…There is no action for users of this service to take. This purpose of this CVE is to provide further transparency.”

While this vulnerability may not pose a dramatic threat to users of Copilot, it is imperative to adhere to best practices of patching and prioritization to ensure continual cyber hygiene.

 

Further reading

Each new vulnerability is a reminder of where we stand and what we need to do better. Check out the following resources to help you maintain cyber hygiene and stay ahead of the threat actors: 

  1. Can you trust ChatGPT’s package recommendations?
  2. The MITRE ATT&CK framework: Getting started
  3. The true impact of exploitable vulnerabilities for 2024
  4. Vulnerability disclosure policy (and how to get it right)
  5. How to properly tackle zero-day threats

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