CVE-2020-1421: Microsoft Windows LNK File Parsing Type Confusion Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

Published Jul 14, 2020
·
Updated

A remote code execution vulnerability exists in Microsoft Windows that could allow remote code execution if a .LNK file is processed.An attacker who successfully exploited this vulnerability could gain the same user rights as the local user, aka 'LNK Remote Code Execution Vulnerability'.

Other sources

This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of Microsoft Windows. User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability in that the target must visit a malicious page or open a malicious file. The specific flaw exists within the parsing of LNK files in StructuredQuery.dll. A crafted LeafCondition element can trigger a type confusion condition. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process.

Affected Software

28 affected components
Microsoft Windows 10
Microsoft Windows 10
Microsoft Windows 10=1607
Microsoft Windows 10=1607
Microsoft Windows 10=1709
Microsoft Windows 10=1709
Microsoft Windows 10=1709
Microsoft Windows 10=1803
Microsoft Windows 10=1803
Microsoft Windows 10=1803
Microsoft Windows 10=1809
Microsoft Windows 10=1809
Microsoft Windows 10=1809
Microsoft Windows 10=1903
Microsoft Windows 10=1903
Microsoft Windows 10=1903
Microsoft Windows 10=1909
Microsoft Windows 10=1909
Microsoft Windows 10=1909
Microsoft Windows 10=2004
Microsoft Windows 10=2004
Microsoft Windows 10=2004
Microsoft Windows Server 2016
Microsoft Windows Server 2016=1903
Microsoft Windows Server 2016=1909
Microsoft Windows Server 2016=2004
Microsoft Windows Server 2019
Microsoft Windows

Event History

Jul 14, 2020
CVE Published
via MITRE·10:54 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·10:54 PM
DescriptionWeakness
Apr 1, 2025
Advisory Published
via ZDI·05:16 PM

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2020-1421?

CVE-2020-1421 is rated as important due to its potential for remote code execution.

2

How do I fix CVE-2020-1421?

To fix CVE-2020-1421, ensure your Microsoft Windows is updated with the latest security patches provided by Microsoft.

3

What systems are affected by CVE-2020-1421?

CVE-2020-1421 affects multiple versions of Microsoft Windows 10 and Windows Server 2016 and 2019.

4

What type of vulnerability is CVE-2020-1421?

CVE-2020-1421 is classified as a remote code execution vulnerability.

5

Can CVE-2020-1421 be exploited without user interaction?

Yes, CVE-2020-1421 can be exploited when a malicious .LNK file is processed by the affected system.

Contact

SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
132 Wickham Terrace
Fortitude Valley,
QLD 4006, Australia
info@secalerts.co
By using SecAlerts services, you agree to our services end-user license agreement. This website is safeguarded by reCAPTCHA and governed by the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. All names, logos, and brands of products are owned by their respective owners, and any usage of these names, logos, and brands for identification purposes only does not imply endorsement. If you possess any content that requires removal, please get in touch with us.
© 2026 SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
ABN: 70 645 966 203, ACN: 645 966 203