Microsoft PC Manager MSPCManagerService Link Following Local Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

December 17th, 2024
ZDI-24-1694 ZDI-CAN-25733

CVE ID

CVSS Score

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

Affected Vendors

Microsoft

Affected Products

PC Manager

Vulnerability Details

This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Microsoft PC Manager. 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 MSPCManagerService. By creating a symbolic link, an attacker can abuse the service to create arbitrary files. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code in the context of SYSTEM.

Additional Details

Microsoft has issued an update to correct this vulnerability. More details can be found at:
https://portal.msrc.microsoft.com/en-us/security-guidance/researcher-acknowledgments-online-services

Disclosure Timeline

  • 2024-11-05 - Vulnerability reported to vendor
  • 2024-12-17 - Coordinated public release of advisory
  • 2024-12-17 - Advisory Updated

Credit

Amol Dosanjh of Trend Micro

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