Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Uncontrolled Search Path Element Local Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

April 15th, 2026
ZDI-26-267 ZDI-CAN-22936

CVE ID

CVSS Score

7.8 AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

Affected Vendors

Malwarebytes

Affected Products

Anti-Malware

Vulnerability Details

This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target system in order to exploit this vulnerability.

The specific flaw exists within the Malwarebytes service. The issue results from loading a file from an unsecured location. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code in the context of SYSTEM.

Additional Details

Fixed in version 1.0.6.31


Disclosure Timeline

  • 2024-02-29 - Vulnerability reported to vendor
  • 2026-04-15 - Coordinated public release of advisory
  • 2026-04-15 - Advisory Updated

Credit

Malcolm Stagg (@malcolmst) of SODIUM-24, LLC

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