Software Engineering Institute

The Microsoft Windows Shell Hardware Detection service provides notification for AutoPlay hardware events. This service fails to properly validate a function parameter in the way that hardware is detected and initialized which may allow access with escalated privileges. An attacker with the ability to run a specially crafted application that forces the system to perform a hardware detection and initialization event, may be able to exploit this vulnerability.

A local, authenticated attacker may be able to access the system with escalated privileges. Secondary impacts include: the ability to install programs; view, change or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights.

Microsoft has released an update to address this issue. Please see Microsoft Security Bulletin MS07-006 for more details.

Workaround

Disable the Shell Hardware Detection service

Disabling the Shell Hardware Detection service will help protect the affected system from attempts to exploit this vulnerability. To disable the Shell Hardware Detection service, follow these steps:

1. Click Start, and then click Control Panel. Alternatively, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click Administrative Tools.
3. Double-click Services.
4. Double-click Shell Hardware Detection service.
5. In the Startup type list, click Disabled.
6. Click Stop, and then click OK.

Please note that disabling the Shell Hardware Detection service may limit Fast User switching capabilities.