full-disclosure - Patching networks redux

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From: akloster at spp.org (Alan Kloster)
Subject: Patching networks redux

Paul Schmehl wrote:
>testing has shown that some patch management tools
>are incorrectly reporting that MS03-026 is installed when it's not
>(notably Windows Update and Update Expert, among others.)  The accuracy
>of the tool depends on how they check for the patch level.  If they
>check the registry (like Windows Update and Update Expert do) they will
>*incorrectly* report that MS03-026 has been installed when if fact the
>files have not been updated.  If they do MD5 checksums (like Hfnetchk or
>MBSA), they will correctly report the patch level.

Reading the notice from Microsoft MS03-026 suggests that nothing below Win2k SP3 or NT SP6a can be patched effectively.  They kind of hid this in one of the extra pull downs on the website.  We are finding that the patch can be applied to systems that don't meet this criteria, but doesn't take, and the Eeye scanner still shows them vulnerable.  Just a heads up for people who haven't applied the service packs, but think they are safe.  Windows update also doesn't show the patch as available for machines at the wrong SP level.

Props to Eeye for helping us all with the scanner tool.

Alan Kloster