NTLM credentials

Winsage
October 26, 2025
Microsoft has disabled the preview feature for files downloaded from the internet in the File Explorer Preview pane for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2, as well as in the latest Windows 10 update, due to security concerns. Users can still preview locally created files, but attempting to preview internet-downloaded files will trigger a warning message. The decision to disable previews for these files is intended to prevent potential security vulnerabilities, specifically a risk of NTLM hash leaks. Files marked with a “Mark of the Web (MotW)” tag, which indicates they were downloaded from various sources, will be blocked from previewing. Users can unblock previews for trusted files by right-clicking the file, selecting Properties, and checking the ‘Unblock’ option. A PowerShell script is also available to unblock all files in a specific directory. This update is part of the Windows October 2025 Patch Tuesday.
Winsage
March 28, 2025
A newly uncovered zero-day vulnerability in Windows allows hackers to steal NTLM credentials simply by previewing a malicious file, affecting multiple Windows versions, including Windows 7 and Windows 11 v24H2. Microsoft has not yet issued a patch for this vulnerability, leaving millions of users exposed. The flaw was reported by security researcher Mitja Kolsek from ACROS Security, who noted that stolen credentials could lead to unauthorized access to networks. ACROS Security has created a temporary micro-patch available through its 0patch platform, which users are encouraged to implement. Additionally, a separate zero-day vulnerability identified in Google Chrome and other Chromium-based browsers allows attackers to bypass sandbox protection with a click on a malicious link, primarily targeting media organizations and government agencies in Russia. Users are advised to install the 0patch fix, avoid interacting with unfamiliar files, and update their browsers to protect against these threats.
Winsage
March 26, 2025
Windows users are facing multiple zero-day vulnerabilities affecting various operating system versions, including Windows 7, Server 2008 R2, and Windows 11 v24H2, with no official patch available from Microsoft. A new vulnerability allows attackers to obtain NTLM credentials by having a user view a malicious file in Windows Explorer. This vulnerability is distinct from a previously reported incident and remains undisclosed until Microsoft issues a patch. NTLM vulnerabilities can enable credential theft, and while not classified as critical, they have been exploited in real-world attacks. Users may need to wait for the next Patch Tuesday for an official fix, but can utilize a micro-patch solution from ACROS Security's 0patch to address the vulnerability temporarily.
Winsage
March 26, 2025
0patch has released micropatches for a critical SCF File NTLM hash disclosure vulnerability affecting all Windows versions from Windows 7 to Windows 11 and Windows Server editions from 2008 to 2025. This vulnerability allows attackers to obtain users' NTLM credentials by having them view a malicious file in Windows Explorer. 0patch operates on a subscription model and provides security fixes for unsupported Windows versions, as well as complimentary patches for unaddressed vulnerabilities. Specific details about the vulnerability are currently withheld, pending an official fix from Microsoft.
Winsage
December 10, 2024
Microsoft has issued new guidance to help organizations defend against NTLM relay attacks following the discovery of a zero-day vulnerability affecting all versions of Windows Workstation and Server, from Windows 7 to Windows 11. This vulnerability allows attackers to capture NTLM credentials by tricking users into opening a malicious file. Microsoft has classified the vulnerability as having moderate severity and expects a fix to be rolled out in April. This is the second NTLM credential leak zero-day reported to Microsoft by ACROS Security since October. Microsoft has updated its guidance on enabling Extended Protection for Authentication (EPA) by default on LDAP, AD CS, and Exchange Server to mitigate NTLM-related vulnerabilities.
Winsage
December 10, 2024
A newly identified zero-day vulnerability in Windows allows attackers to steal NTLM credentials through methods such as opening a malicious file in Windows Explorer. This vulnerability affects multiple versions of Windows, including Windows Server 2022, Windows 11 (up to v24H2), Windows 10, Windows 7, and Server 2008 R2. The exploitation requires minimal user interaction, such as accessing shared folders or USB disks. In response, 0patch is providing a complimentary micropatch to registered users until Microsoft issues an official fix. The vulnerability is part of a larger trend of unresolved issues in Windows, and cybersecurity experts emphasize the need for enterprises to adopt robust security measures beyond automated patch management.
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