Microsoft To Patch Windows on January 10th; Attack Spreads

Dow Jones News Service (excerpt) ^ | January 3, 2006 | Chris Reiter

[HAL9000]

Excerpt -

NEW YORK -(Dow Jones)- Microsoft Corp. (MSFT) plans to release a patch for a new security flaw at its next scheduled update release on Jan. 10, leaving users largely unprotected until then from a rapidly spreading computer virus strain.

"Microsoft's delay is inexcusable," said Alan Paller, director of research at computer security group SANS Institute. "There's no excuse other than incompetence and negligence."

"It's a problem that there's no known solution from Microsoft," said Alfred Huger, senior director of engineering at Symantec Corp.'s (SYMC) security response team.

SANS Institute, via its Internet Storm Center, has taken the unusual step of releasing its own patch for the problem until a Microsoft-approved fix is available. "It's not something we like to do," said Paller.

The Internet Storm Center, which tracks viruses and other outbreaks on the Web, increased the threat level to "yellow" - a warning that means a significant new threat is developing.

[snip]

[js1138]

Just a suggestion, but 64 bit computers, like the AMD64 are not vulnerable, assuming you have XP SP2.

[proxy_user]

I was thinking, well, it's still safe to go to FreeRepublic, they're only text. Then I realized anyone can link to any image here.

Perhaps we should disable this feature for now?

[xrp]

You'd have to have data execution prevention enabled, too. However, the next variant will likely utilize exploit methods that evades Microsoft DEP.

See phrack #62 for details.

[Peach]

At least we don't still have the Clinton DOJ going after Microsoft while ignoring terrorists.

[daviddennis]

I'm a Mac user, so I can be smug. Perhaps you should join me :-).

Other than buying a Macintosh or Linux-based computer, I think I would simply turn off images in my browser when viewing FR.

D

[Lx]

Someone else posted this fix from GRC:
There's also a third party fix but I'm leery about using it.

http://www.grc.com/sn/notes-020.htm


UNTIL THIS IS REPAIRED BY MICROSOFT, ANY ATTEMPT
TO DISPLAY A MALICIOUS IMAGE IN WINDOWS COULD
INSTALL MALICIOUS SOFTWARE INTO THE COMPUTER.

This is a so-called "0-day vulnerability" because exploits for the vulnerability appeared before any updates or patches were available.

Although NOT a complete solution, Microsoft has recommended temporarily disabling the automatic display of some images by the operating system and web browser. This can be done, as detailed below, by "unregistering" the "SHIMGVW.DLL" Windows DLL. THIS IS NOT A COMPLETE SOLUTION, but it significantly lowers the risk from this vulnerability from web surfing.

For Windows 2000, XP, 64-bit XP and 2003 server

The temporary patch described above is a FAR superior
solution. ONLY use the de-registration approach below if
you are unable to use Ilfak's temporary patch.

Do not open any "WMF" — Windows Metafiles — you receive by eMail, and reports are that other file types may also be dangerous.

Anti-virus companies have responded to this, so update your anti-virus signature files for updated protection.

You should IMMEDIATELY disable Windows' use of this
vulnerable DLL until patches from Microsoft are available.

Note that this WILL temporarily disable the "Thumbnail" view
in Windows Explorer and Window's Image and FAX viewer. This is
by design, since these viewers are no longer safe to use until a
non-vulnerable file has been produced by Microsoft and installed.

To immediately disable the vulnerable Windows component:

1) Logon as a user with full administrative rights.

2) Click the Windows "Start" button and select "Run..."

3) Enter the following string into the "Open" field:

regsvr32 -u shimgvw.dll

(You can copy/paste from this page using Ctrl-C/Ctrl-V)

4) Click "OK" to unregister the vulnerable DLL.

If all goes well, you will receive a confirmation prompt, and your system is now safe. No need to reboot, but you might want to just to be sure that any possible currently loaded instance is flushed out.


To eventually re-enable the "SHIMGVW.DLL" component:

Logon as a user with full administrative rights.

Click the Windows "Start" button and select "Run..."

Enter the following string into the "Open" field:

1) regsvr32 shimgvw.dll

(You can copy/paste from this page using Ctrl-C/Ctrl-V)
Same as the one above, but no "-u" for "uninstall".

Click "OK" to re-register the (hopefully) non-vulnerable DLL.

[Al Gator]

As of last night, I put on my RED HAT, went ROOT, and tipped my FEDORA and left the windows world far behind.

Life is nice.

[HAL9000]

Perhaps we should disable this feature for now?

I disagree. FreeRepublic is already doing it's part to improve security by running on a Linux server. Microsoft is responsible for getting Windows fixed. Good luck to all of the Microsoft customers.

[MarineBrat]

I installed the patch from GRC's recommendation on my XP machines a few days ago, and unregistered the DLL on my W2K machines, and have had no problems thus far.

I tend to trust Gibson fairly well.

[TomGuy]

I used that temp patch yesterday, and it is now showing my pc has no apparent vunerability.

Gibson (at GRC) is a very reliable source. He developed one of the early programs to 'set' hard drive parameters. He's an ancient sage -- in Internet years. lol.

[ShadowAce]

[Ernest_at_the_Beach]

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TechNet Home > TechNet Security > Security Advisories

Microsoft Security Advisory (912840)

Vulnerability in Graphics Rendering Engine Could Allow Remote Code Execution.

Published: December 28, 2005 | Updated: January 3, 2006

On Tuesday, December 27, 2005, Microsoft became aware of public reports of malicious attacks on some customers involving a previously unknown security vulnerability in the Windows Meta File (WMF) code area in the Windows platform.

Upon learning of the attacks, Microsoft mobilized under its Software Security Incident Response Process (SSIRP) to analyze the attack, assess its scope, define an engineering plan, and determine the appropriate guidance for customers, as well as to engage with anti-virus partners and law enforcement.

Microsoft confirmed the technical details of the attack on December 28, 2005 and immediately began developing a security update for the WMF vulnerability on an expedited track.

Microsoft has completed development of the security update for the vulnerability. The security update is now being localized and tested to ensure quality and application compatibility. Microsoft’s goal is to release the update on Tuesday, January 10, 2006, as part of its monthly release of security bulletins. This release is predicated on successful completion of quality testing.

The update will be released worldwide simultaneously in 23 languages for all affected versions of Windows once it passes a series of rigorous testing procedures. It will be available on Microsoft’s Download Center, as well as through Microsoft Update and Windows Update. Customers who use Windows’ Automatic Updates feature will be delivered the fix automatically.

Based on strong customer feedback, all Microsoft’s security updates must pass a series of quality tests, including testing by third parties, to assure customers that they can be deployed effectively in all languages and for all versions of the Windows platform with minimum down time.

Microsoft has been carefully monitoring the attempted exploitation of the WMF vulnerability since it became public last week, through its own forensic capabilities and through partnerships within the industry and law enforcement. Although the issue is serious and malicious attacks are being attempted, Microsoft’s intelligence sources indicate that the scope of the attacks are not widespread.

In addition, anti-virus companies indicate that attacks based on exploiting the WMF vulnerability are being effectively mitigated through up-to-date signatures.

Customers are encouraged to keep their anti-virus software up-to-date. The Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware (Beta) can also help protect your system from spyware and other potentially unwanted software. Customers can also visit Windows Live Safety Center and are encouraged to use the Complete Scan option to check for and remove malicious software that takes advantage of this vulnerability. We will continue to investigate these public reports.

If you are a Windows OneCare user and your current status is green, you are already protected from known malware that uses this vulnerability to attempt to attack systems.

Customers who follow safe browsing best practices are not likely to be compromised by any exploitation of the WMF vulnerability. Users should take care not to visit unfamiliar or un-trusted Web sites that could potentially host the malicious code.

Microsoft encourages users to exercise caution when they open e-mail and links in e-mail from untrusted sources. While we have not encountered any situation in which simply opening an email can result in attack, clicking on a link in an email could result in navigation to a malicious site. For more information about Safe Browsing, visit the Trustworthy Computing Web site.

Microsoft considers the intentional use of exploit code, in any form, to cause damage to computer users to be a criminal offense. Accordingly, we continue to work closely with our anti-virus partners and we are assisting law enforcement with its investigation of the attacks in this case. Customers who believe they have been attacked should contact their local FBI office or post their complaint on the Internet Fraud Complaint Center Web site. Customers outside the U.S. should contact the national law enforcement agency in their country.

We continue to encourage customers to follow our Protect Your PC guidance of enabling a firewall, applying software updates and installing antivirus software. Customers can learn more about these steps at the Protect Your PC Web site. The Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware (Beta) can also help protect your system from spyware and other potentially unwanted software.

Customers who believe they may have been affected by this issue can also contact Product Support Services. You can contact Product Support Services in the United States and Canada at no charge using the PC Safety line (1 866-PCSAFETY). Customers outside of the United States and Canada can locate the number for no-charge virus support by visiting the Microsoft Help and Support Web site.

Mitigating Factors:

•	In a Web-based attack scenario, an attacker would have to host a Web site that contains a Web page that is used to exploit this vulnerability. An attacker would have no way to force users to visit a malicious Web site. Instead, an attacker would have to persuade them to visit the Web site, typically by getting them to click a link that takes them to the attacker's Web site.
•	In an E-mail based attack involving the current exploit, customers would have to be persuaded to click on a link within a malicious e-mail or open an attachment that exploited the vulnerability. At this point, no attachment has been identified in which a user can be attacked simply by reading mail.
•	An attacker who successfully exploited this vulnerability could only gain the same user rights as the local user. Users whose accounts are configured to have fewer user rights on the system could be less impacted than users who operate with administrative user rights.
•	By default, Internet Explorer on Windows Server 2003, on Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1, on Windows Server 2003 with Service Pack 1 for Itanium-based Systems, and on Windows Server 2003 x64 Edition runs in a restricted mode that is known as Enhanced Security Configuration This mode mitigates this vulnerability where the e-mail vector is concerned although clicking on a link would still put users at risk. In Windows Server 2003, Microsoft Outlook Express uses plain text for reading and sending messages by default. When replying to an e-mail message that is sent in another format, the response is formatted in plain text. See the FAQ section of this vulnerability for more information about Internet Explorer Enhanced Security Configuration.

General Information

Overview

Purpose of Advisory: To provide customers with initial notification of the publicly disclosed and exploited vulnerability. For more information see the “Suggested Actions” section of the security advisory.

Advisory Status: Issue Confirmed, Security Update Planned

Recommendation: Review the suggested actions and configure as appropriate.

References	Identification
CVE Reference	CVE-2005-4560
CERT Reference	VU#181038
Microsoft Knowledge Base Article	912840

This advisory discusses the following software.

Related Software

Microsoft Windows 2000 Service Pack 4

Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 1

Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2

Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition

Microsoft Windows Server 2003

Microsoft Windows Server 2003 for Itanium-based Systems

Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1

Microsoft Windows Server 2003 with SP1 for Itanium-based Systems

Microsoft Windows Server 2003 x64 Edition

Microsoft Windows 98, Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition (SE), and Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition (ME)

Note Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1 and Microsoft Windows Server 2003 x64 Edition also refer to Microsoft Windows Server 2003 R2.

Top of section

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scope of the advisory?
Microsoft is aware of a new vulnerability report affecting the Graphics Rendering Engine in Microsoft Windows. This vulnerability affects the software that is listed in the “Overview” section.

Is this a security vulnerability that requires Microsoft to issue a security update?
Yes, Microsoft has confirmed this vulnerability and will include the fix for this issue in an upcoming security bulletin.

What causes the vulnerability?
A vulnerability exists in the way specially crafted Windows Metafile (WMF) images are handled that could allow arbitrary code to be executed.

What is the Windows Metafile (WMF) image format?
A Windows Metafile (WMF) image is a 16-bit metafile format that can contain both vector information and bitmap information. It is optimized for the Windows operating system.

For more information about image types and formats, see Microsoft Knowledge Base Article 320314. Additional information about these file formats is also available at the MSDN Library Web site.

What might an attacker use the vulnerability to do?
An attacker who successfully exploited this vulnerability could take complete control of the affected system. This issue is not known to be wormable. In a Web-based attack scenario, an attacker would host a Web site that exploits this vulnerability. An attacker would have no way to force users to visit a malicious Web site. Instead, an attacker would have to persuade them to visit the Web site, typically by getting them to click a link that takes them to the attacker's site. It could also be possible to display specially crafted Web content by using banner advertisements or by using other methods to deliver Web content to affected systems.

How could an attacker exploit the vulnerability?
An attacker could host a malicious Web site that is designed to exploit this vulnerability through Internet Explorer and then persuade a user to view the Web site.

I am reading e-mail in plain text, does this help mitigate the vulnerability?
Yes. Reading e-mail in plain text does mitigate this vulnerability where the e-mail vector is concerned although clicking on a link would still put users at risk.

Note In Windows Server 2003, Microsoft Outlook Express uses plain text for reading and sending messages by default. When replying to an e-mail message that is sent in another format, the response is formatted in plain text.

I have DEP enabled on my system, does this help mitigate the vulnerability?
Software based DEP does not mitigate the vulnerability. However, Hardware based DEP may work when enabled. Please consult with your hardware manufacturer for more information on how to enable this feature and whether it can provide mitigation.

Does this vulnerability affect image formats other than Windows Metafile (WMF)?
The only image format affected is the Windows Metafile (WMF) format. It is possible however that an attacker could rename the file extension of a WMF file to that of a different image format. In this situation, it is likely that the Graphic Rendering engine would detect and render the file as a WMF image which could allow exploitation.

Windows Metafile (WMF) images can be embedded in other files such as Word documents. Am I vulnerable to an attack from this vector?
No. While we are investigating the public postings which seek to utilize specially crafted WMF files through IE, we are looking thoroughly at all instances of WMF handling as part of our investigation. While we're not aware of any attempts to embed specially crafted WMF files in, for example Microsoft Word documents, our advice is to accept files only from trusted source would apply to any such attempts.

If I block .wmf files by extension, can this protect me against attempts to exploit this vulnerability?
No. Because the Graphics Rendering Engine determines file type by means other than just looking at the file extensions, it is possible for WMF files with changed extensions to still be rendered in a way that could exploit the vulnerability.

Does the workaround in this advisory protect me from attempts to exploit this vulnerability through WMF files with changed extensions?
Yes. Microsoft has tested and can confirm the workaround in this advisory help protect against WMF files with changed extensions.

It has been reported that malicious files indexed by MSN Desktop Search could lead to exploitation of the vulnerability. Is this true?
We have received reports and are investigating them thoroughly as part of our ongoing investigation. We are not aware at this time of issues around the MSN Desktop Indexer, but we are continuing to investigate.

Is this issue related to Microsoft Security Bulletin MS05-053 - Vulnerabilities in Graphics Rendering Engine Could Allow Code Execution (896424) which was released in November?
No, these are different and separate issues.

Will my anti-virus software protect me from exploitation of this vulnerability?
As of the latest update to this advisory the following members of the Virus Information Alliance have indicated that their anti-virus software provides protection from exploitation of Windows Metafile (WMF) files using the vulnerability discussed in this advisory.

•	Symantec
•	Computer Associates
•	McAfee
•	F-Secure Corporation
•	Panda Software International
•	Eset Software
•	Aladdin
•	Norman

In addition Microsoft is providing heuristic protection against exploitation of this vulnerability through Windows Metafile (WMF) files in our new Windows OneCare Live Beta.

As currently known attacks can change, the level of protection offered by anti-virus vendors at any time may vary. Customers are advised to contact their preferred anti-virus vendor with any questions they may have or to confirm additional information regarding their vendor’s method of protection against exploitation of this vulnerability.

When this security advisory was issued, had Microsoft received any reports that this vulnerability was being exploited?
Yes. When the security advisory was released, Microsoft had received information that this vulnerability was being actively exploited.

What’s Microsoft’s response to the availability of third party patches for the WMF vulnerability?
Microsoft recommends that customers download and deploy the security update for the WMF vulnerability that we are targeting for release on January 10, 2006.

As a general rule, it is a best practice to utilize security updates for software vulnerabilities from the original vendor of the software. With Microsoft software, Microsoft carefully reviews and tests security updates to ensure that they are of high quality and have been evaluated thoroughly for application compatibility. In addition, Microsoft’s security updates are offered in 23 languages for all affected versions of the software simultaneously.

Microsoft cannot provide similar assurance for independent third party security updates.

Why is it taking Microsoft so long to issue a security update?
Creating security updates that effectively fix vulnerabilities is an extensive process. There are many factors that impact the length of time between the discovery of a vulnerability and the release of a security update. When a potential vulnerability is reported, designated product specific security experts investigate the scope and impact of a threat on the affected product. Once the MSRC knows the extent and the severity of the vulnerability, they work to develop an update for every supported version affected. Once the update is built, it must be tested with the different operating systems and applications it affects, then localized for many markets and languages across the globe.

Top of section

Suggested Actions

•

Un-register the Windows Picture and Fax Viewer (Shimgvw.dll) on Windows XP Service Pack 1; Windows XP Service Pack 2; Windows Server 2003 and Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1

Microsoft has tested the following workaround. While this workaround will not correct the underlying vulnerability, it helps block known attack vectors. When a workaround reduces functionality, it is identified in the following section.

Note The following steps require Administrative privileges. It is recommended that the machine be restarted after applying this workaround. It is also possible to log out and log back in after applying the workaround. However, the recommendation is to restart the machine.

To un-register Shimgvw.dll, follow these steps:

1.	Click Start, click Run, type "regsvr32 -u %windir%\system32\shimgvw.dll" (without the quotation marks), and then click OK.
2.	A dialog box appears to confirm that the un-registration process has succeeded. Click OK to close the dialog box.

Impact of Workaround: The Windows Picture and Fax Viewer will no longer be started when users click on a link to an image type that is associated with the Windows Picture and Fax Viewer.

To undo this change, re-register Shimgvw.dll by following the above steps. Replace the text in Step 1 with “regsvr32 %windir%\system32\shimgvw.dll” (without the quotation marks).

•

Microsoft encourages users to exercise caution when they open e-mail and links in e-mail from untrusted sources. For more information about Safe Browsing, visit the Trustworthy Computing Web site.

•

Customers in the U.S. and Canada who believe they may have been affected by this possible vulnerability can receive technical support from Microsoft Product Support Services at 1-866-PCSAFETY. There is no charge for support that is associated with security update issues or viruses." International customers can receive support by using any of the methods that are listed at Security Help and Support for Home Users Web site.

•

All customers should apply the most recent security updates released by Microsoft to help ensure that their systems are protected from attempted exploitation. Customers who have enabled Automatic Updates will automatically receive all Windows updates. For more information about security updates, visit the Microsoft Security Web site.

•

Protect Your PC

We continue to encourage customers follow our Protect Your PC guidance of enabling a firewall, getting software updates and installing ant-virus software. Customers can learn more about these steps by visiting Protect Your PC Web site.

•

For more information about staying safe on the Internet, customers can visit the Microsoft Security Home Page.

•

Keep Windows Updated

All Windows users should apply the latest Microsoft security updates to help make sure that their computers are as protected as possible. If you are not sure whether your software is up to date, visit the Microsoft Update Web site, scan your computer for available updates, and install any high-priority updates that are offered to you. If you have Automatic Updates enabled, the updates are delivered to you when they are released, but you have to make sure you install them.

Top of section

Resources:

•	You can provide feedback by completing the form by visiting the following Web site.
•	Customers in the U.S. and Canada can receive technical support from Microsoft Product Support Services. For more information about available support options, see the Microsoft Help and Support Web site.
•	International customers can receive support from their local Microsoft subsidiaries. For more information about how to contact Microsoft for international support issues, visit the International Support Web site.
•	The Microsoft TechNet Security Web site provides additional information about security in Microsoft products.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this advisory is provided "as is" without warranty of any kind. Microsoft disclaims all warranties, either express or implied, including the warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. In no event shall Microsoft Corporation or its suppliers be liable for any damages whatsoever including direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, loss of business profits or special damages, even if Microsoft Corporation or its suppliers have been advised of the possibility of such damages. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of liability for consequential or incidental damages so the foregoing limitation may not apply.

Revisions:

•	December 28, 2005: Advisory published
•	December 29, 2005: Advisory updated. FAQ section updated.
•	December 30, 2005: Advisory updated. FAQ section updated.
•	January 3, 2006: Information has been added to the beginning of the advisory as well as the FAQ section to provide updated information about the state of the investigation. Information has also been added to the FAQ section regarding reports of a third party security update for this issue.

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[Ernest_at_the_Beach]

So all will be fine on the 10th...till then be careful..

[zeugma]

Excellent timing Gator!

[Al Gator]

Hey Ernie,

Publishing a novel in a thread is not considered wholesome.

Putting in a link to a page off the side, now that's considerate.

[untrained skeptic]

If Linux suits your computing needs it's likely a good choice.

Since I like to play on-line games with decent graphics on my home PC Windows is the only reasonable option for me on that computer.

I'd be better off backing up my important data and reloading my computer weekly to get rid of viruses than trying to use Linux.

I like Linux for many purposes. I work with it almost daily at work. It's a good tool for many things. It has much better security than Windows. However for most people, Windows is still a better choice for the majority of their needs.

That may change in the future. I hope it does, it would be nice to have more viable options.

[Ernest_at_the_Beach]

I wanted to catch the fullness of the MS arrongance before they pulled it from their website.......

[Lx]

Gibson rocks.

Years ago when I was the service manager at a computer store, I could get data off of dead drives using Spinrite. Catch was it took a couple of days to run. It even worked when I had to open up an old ST-251-1 drive that had broken the thin metal blade that moved the heads. Took the part out of another dead drive and Bingo, data recovery! For a nominal fee of course.

His shields up is very cool as well.

[RS]

""It's a problem that there's no known solution from Microsoft," said Alfred Huger, senior director of engineering at Symantec Corp.'s (SYMC) security response team."

But, But ... I thought Symantec's Internet Security was supposed to keep me safe ....