As explained by researcher Kevin Beaumont, the exploit uses Word’s remote template function to get an HTML file from a distant web server. Subsequently, the code is loaded, and PowerShell instructions are executed via the ms-msdt MSProtocol URI scheme. The exploit was given the name “Follina” since the sample file has the area code 0438, the Follina, Italy area code.
How to Fix Microsoft “Follina” MSDT Windows Zero-Day Vulnerability
So far, until Microsoft releases a security patch and distributes it through its patch Tuesday updates, the only solution to fix this issue is by disabling the MSDT URL Protocol. Here are the steps you can take to protect yourself against the Follina Zero-Day Vulnerability.
Step 1: Press Windows + S on your keyboard to open the Windows Search box and type CMD.
Step 2: Once the search result appears, look for Command Prompt and choose Run as Administrator to run this app in elevated mode.
Step 3: The next step will take a backup of your Windows Registry. Copy and paste the following command in your command prompt, followed by the Enter key.
reg export HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\ms-msdt <file_path.reg>
Step 4: After the Backup is successfully done, you can copy the following command followed by the Enter key.
reg delete HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\ms-msdt /f
Step 5: Wait until you get the message “The operation completed successfully” on the Command Prompt window, which indicates that the process is successful.
Step 6: To restore the changes you have carried out, you can import the registry backup taken before executing the command in step 4.
Step 7: Run the following command to reaccess the MSDT URL Protocol.
reg import <file_path.reg>
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The Final Word On How to Fix Microsoft “Follina” MSDT Windows Zero-Day Vulnerability
I hope the above steps help you fix your PC’s Microsoft “Follina” MSDT Windows Zero-Day vulnerability until a permanent fix arrives. You can always trust Systweak Antivirus on your PC for other malware and viruses that spy on you or harm your computer.
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