Microsoft Windows HTML Help could allow execution of code

win-htmlhelp-execute-code (16586) The risk level is classified as HighHigh Risk

Description:

Microsoft Windows could allow a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on the system, caused by a vulnerability in HTML Help. HTML Help fails to properly validate user-supplied input. A remote attacker could send a specially-crafted email message that contains a specially-crafted link to a vulnerable system, which would allow the attacker to gain complete control over the affected system, with the privileges of the victim, once the link is clicked. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by hosting the malicious file on a Web site or by sending it to a victim as an HTML email and persuading the victim to click on the link contained within the email.

Platforms Affected:

  • Microsoft, Windows 2000 SP4
  • Microsoft, Windows 2000 SP2
  • Microsoft, Windows 2000 SP3
  • Microsoft, Windows 2003 Server x64
  • Microsoft, Windows 2003 Server SP1 x64
  • Microsoft, Windows 2003 Server
  • Microsoft, Windows 98
  • Microsoft, Windows 98SE
  • Microsoft, Windows Me
  • Microsoft, Windows XP 2003 64-bit
  • Microsoft, Windows XP
  • Microsoft, Windows XP SP1

Remedy:

Apply the appropriate patch for your system, as listed in Microsoft Security Bulletin MS05-026. See References.

Note: Microsoft originally provided a patch for this vulnerability inMS04-023, but it was superseded by the patch released with MS05-026.

Consequences:

Gain Access

References:

Reported:

Jul 13, 2004

The information within this database may change without notice. Use of this information constitutes acceptance for use in an AS IS condition. There are NO warranties, implied or otherwise, with regard to this information or its use. Any use of this information is at the user's risk. In no event shall the author/distributor (IBM Internet Security Systems X-Force) be held liable for any damages whatsoever arising out of or in connection with the use or spread of this information.

For corrections or additions please email xforce@iss.net

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