Security News > 2023 > December > Microsoft is working on a more secure print system for Windows

After announcing a gradual elimination of third-party printer drivers on Windows earlier this year, Microsoft has now unveiled its plan for enhancing security by introducting Windows Protected Print Mode.

For years, the Windows print system has been a key target for attackers because the Windows Print Spooler service/process has high privileges that can be exploited to execute malicious files.

"These protections are often 'all or nothing', meaning that all participating binaries must take steps to be compatible for the protection to be effective. Since not every print manufacturer has taken the necessary steps to update these drivers, the print service does not currently benefit from these modern exploit mitigations," Norman explained.

Windows Protected Print Mode, for now limited to Windows Insiders, only supports Mopria-certified printers and disables third-party printer drivers.

"The Print System in Windows has historically been a key target for attackers and these changes make significant reductions in total attack surface," Norman noted, and added that they plan for these changes to become the default for users in the future.

"No more loading 3rd party print drivers, no more high privilege services, and robust exploit mitigations enabled to protect users. There is a lot of work to do, this first release is only a step in the direction we are taking. But I feel it is the right direction for user safety."

News URL

https://www.helpnetsecurity.com/2023/12/18/windows-print-security/