CVE-2017-8543VulnerabilityPublished 05/24/2022Updated 10/24/2026

CVE-2017-8543: Microsoft Windows Search Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

Affects Microsoft WindowsSource CISA KEV

Severity

High

No CVSS score published yet

Exploitation: Actively exploited – in CISA KEV since 05/24/2022
KEV deadline: 06/14/2022
EPSS: 74.4% chance of exploitation in 30 days – higher than 99% of CVEs

What to do

CISA required action

Apply updates per vendor instructions.

nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2017-8543 (opens in a new tab)

Description

CVE-2017-8543 is a high-severity remote code execution vulnerability in Microsoft Windows Search. It allows an attacker to take control of the affected system due to improper handling of objects in memory by Windows Search. This vulnerability has been exploited in the wild.

Summary

Microsoft Windows Search contains a remote code execution vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-8543. The flaw arises when Windows Search improperly handles objects in memory, enabling an attacker to execute arbitrary code remotely and gain control over the affected system. This vulnerability has been observed to be exploited in the wild, indicating active threat usage.

Impact

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code remotely on the affected Windows system, potentially leading to full system compromise.

Mitigation

Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance.

Weaknesses

CWE-281Unclassified weakness (opens in a new tab)

What to do

Description

AnalysisAI-generated, updated 10/24/2026, 11:42:25 UTC

Weaknesses

References

Related threats