Microsoft PC Manager Link Following Local Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

July 29th, 2024

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 MSPC Manager Service. By creating a symbolic link, an attacker can abuse the service to delete a file. 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://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/en-us/acknowledgement/online

Disclosure Timeline

  • 2023-12-22 - Vulnerability reported to vendor
  • 2024-07-29 - Coordinated public release of advisory
  • 2024-08-15 - Advisory Updated

Credit

Filip Dragovic (@filip_dragovic)

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