Krebs on Security: Patch Tuesday, October 2024 Edition

Source URL: https://krebsonsecurity.com/2024/10/patch-tuesday-october-2024-edition/
Source: Krebs on Security
Title: Patch Tuesday, October 2024 Edition

Feedly Summary: Microsoft today released security updates to fix at least 117 security holes in Windows computers and other software, including two vulnerabilities that are already seeing active attacks. Also, Adobe plugged 52 security holes across a range of products, and Apple has addressed a bug in its new macOS 15 “Sequoia" update that broke many cybersecurity tools.

AI Summary and Description: Yes

Summary: Microsoft, Adobe, and Apple have recently released security updates addressing multiple vulnerabilities, including two significant zero-day flaws in Windows systems. The updates emphasize the importance of patching and device compatibility, particularly for enterprises still relying on outdated technologies.

Detailed Description:
In a recent round of security updates, major tech companies Microsoft, Adobe, and Apple have addressed multiple vulnerabilities in their respective products, revealing critical insights into ongoing security challenges. Here are the key takeaways:

– **Microsoft’s Security Patches**:
– Fixed at least 117 security flaws, including two active zero-day vulnerabilities (CVE-2024-43573 and CVE-2024-43572).
– **CVE-2024-43573**:
– A vulnerability in Microsoft’s proprietary MSHTML engine.
– Attackers can exploit this via phishing strategies, tricking users into viewing malicious web content.
– Remaining active despite the retirement of Internet Explorer on many platforms, affecting systems still using this technology.
– **CVE-2024-43572**:
– A critical code execution vulnerability within the Microsoft Management Console (MMC).
– Patches prevent opening untrusted Microsoft Saved Console (MSC) files, addressing exploitation techniques observed in the wild.

– **Adobe’s Update**:
– 52 vulnerabilities were fixed across various Adobe products, including Substance 3D Painter and InDesign, underscoring the widespread nature of security risks across software ecosystems.

– **Apple’s macOS Issue**:
– The latest update (macOS 15 “Sequoia”) initially broke the functionality of several cybersecurity tools.
– A follow-up update was issued to fix compatibility issues, highlighting the complexities of maintaining security in interdependent software environments.

– **Recommendations**:
– It is advisable for users and professionals to back up important data before applying updates.
– Waiting a few days post-update may avoid potential issues, as sometimes patches introduce compatibility problems.

This round of updates reinforces the critical need for organizations to maintain their security posture by regularly applying patches and being aware of vulnerabilities, particularly in legacy systems. The incident with MSHTML serves as a cautionary tale for enterprises relying on outdated technologies that could expose them to significant attacks. Regular vigilance and proactive security measures are vital in today’s rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape.