CVE-2018-8581VulnerabilityPublished 03/03/2022Updated 10/24/2026

CVE-2018-8581: Microsoft Exchange Server Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

Affects Microsoft Exchange ServerSource CISA KEV

Severity

High

No CVSS score published yet

Exploitation: Actively exploited – in CISA KEV since 03/03/2022
KEV deadline: 03/17/2022
Ransomware: Used in ransomware campaigns
EPSS: 27.4% chance of exploitation in 30 days – higher than 98% of CVEs

What to do

CISA required action

Apply updates per vendor instructions.

nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2018-8581 (opens in a new tab)

Description

CVE-2018-8581 is a privilege escalation vulnerability in Microsoft Exchange Server that allows an attacker to impersonate any other user on the server. This vulnerability has been exploited in the wild and is known to have been used in ransomware campaigns. No specific affected versions or patch information is provided in the available data.

Summary

This vulnerability in Microsoft Exchange Server enables an attacker who successfully exploits it to escalate privileges and impersonate any other user on the Exchange server. The vulnerability has been observed in active exploitation scenarios, including ransomware campaigns. No detailed technical exploitation methods or affected version ranges are provided in the input data.

Impact

Successful exploitation allows an attacker to impersonate any user on the Exchange Server, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information and further compromise of the environment. The vulnerability has been exploited in the wild, increasing the risk to affected organizations.

Mitigation

Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Since no patch or official fix information is provided, organizations should monitor Microsoft advisories for updates and apply any available security updates promptly.

What to do

Description

AnalysisAI-generated, updated 10/24/2026, 10:41:13 UTC

References

Related threats