Applocker

Winsage
April 22, 2025
A security vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-21204 has been discovered in the Windows Update Stack, allowing local attackers to execute unauthorized code and escalate privileges to SYSTEM-level access. This vulnerability, with a CVSS score of 7.8 (High), affects Windows 10 versions 1507, 1607, and 1809, among likely other supported Windows 10/11 and Windows Server versions. The flaw arises from a design issue where Windows Update processes do not properly follow directory junctions, enabling attackers with limited user privileges to redirect trusted paths to locations containing malicious code. Microsoft has introduced a mitigation strategy in its April 2025 cumulative update, which includes creating a new folder at the root of system drives and implementing detection rules for suspicious junction creations. Organizations are advised to apply the April 2025 security updates, restrict ACLs on specific directories, prevent symbolic link creation, and monitor file creation activities in certain directories.
Winsage
March 25, 2025
Access provides advice on IT challenges, career transitions, and workplace dynamics. A mid-sized company faced a ransomware scare due to a user opening a malicious attachment but recovered data without paying the ransom. To enhance security in a Windows environment on a limited budget, the following steps are recommended: 1. Evaluate data storage by centralizing it on servers rather than individual workstations to improve security and simplify backups. 2. Implement the principle of Least Privilege Access, limiting user access to only necessary resources to reduce potential damage during attacks. 3. Utilize Microsoft's AppLocker to control which applications can run on Windows desktops, blocking unauthorized software. 4. Set up a ransomware kill switch using a custom PowerShell script to monitor for suspicious activities and trigger defensive actions if ransomware is detected.
Tech Optimizer
February 28, 2025
Windows provides tools to enhance security, including the ability to implement a whitelist for applications. Administrators can configure this whitelist using the Local Security Policy tool in Windows Pro and Enterprise versions, or via command prompt in Windows Home. The Applocker feature, available since Windows 10 build 1809, allows for the creation of whitelists and blacklists. Setting up a whitelist involves navigating to Application Control Policies and creating rules for allowed applications, with options to use default rules provided by Microsoft. To set up the Applocker whitelist, users must open Local Security Policy, access AppLocker, and manage executable files through "Executable rules." Administrators can identify applications by file hash or path, with file hash being more secure. The Application Identity service must be activated for Applocker to function, which can be done through the services menu. Unauthorized applications will be blocked, and restarting Windows can resolve any issues with the service. Cyberlock is mentioned as an alternative to Applocker, offering advanced features and requiring a paid license after a trial. Windows also includes Smart App Control to monitor user behavior and restrict installations to verified applications. Kiosk mode can be configured to allow only one application to run, suitable for specific environments. Windows Home users can access the Local Security Policy tool through command prompt integration.
Search