Remote Code Execution via Authenticode Signature Verification in Microsoft Windows (CVE‑2012‑0151)
What It Is – The WinVerifyTrust function that validates Authenticode signatures on portable executable (PE) files fails to correctly verify the file’s digest. An attacker who can convince a user to run a maliciously‑signed executable can achieve remote code execution.
Exploitability – The vulnerability is user‑assisted; a maliciously‑signed file must be executed on a vulnerable system. Public exploits have been demonstrated, and the CVSS v3 score is 7.5 (High).
Affected Products – Microsoft Windows operating systems that include the WinVerifyTrust library (all supported Windows versions prior to the security update released in 2012).
Why It Matters for Trust & Control Assurance
- Demonstrates the need for continuous patch management and verifiable evidence that critical OS updates are applied.
- Highlights the importance of control mapping: linking the “software patching” control to multiple frameworks (e.g., NIST CSF, ISO 27001) to show consistent remediation.
- Provides a concrete audit‑ready artifact (patch‑install logs) that can be presented to regulators or enterprise buyers demanding a defensible security posture.
Recommended Actions
- Verify that the Microsoft security update for CVE‑2012‑0151 is installed on all Windows endpoints.
- Use a configuration‑management tool to collect and retain patch‑installation logs as evidence of control execution.
- Update your control‑mapping repository to reflect the remediation of the “Apply security patches promptly” control objective.
- Monitor Windows event logs for attempts to load unsigned or improperly signed executables.
Source: CISA KEV – CVE‑2012‑0151