CVE-2005-4708 in Macromedia Products
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Macromedia MX 2004 products, Captivate, Contribute 2, Contribute 3, and eLicensing client install the Macromedia Licensing Service with the Users group permitted to configure the service, including the path to executable, which allows local users to execute arbitrary code as Local System.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/19/2025
This vulnerability exists in Adobe Macromedia MX 2004 products including Captivate, Contribute 2, Contribute 3, and the eLicensing client where the Macromedia Licensing Service is installed with insufficient access controls. The service configuration permits members of the Users group to modify service properties, specifically the executable path, creating a privilege escalation opportunity. This flaw represents a classic service configuration vulnerability where improper access control permissions allow unauthorized local users to manipulate critical system components.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the Windows service architecture where service configuration parameters are stored in the Windows Registry and can be modified by users with appropriate permissions. When the Users group is granted configuration rights to the Macromedia Licensing Service, it creates a path traversal and execution vector that attackers can exploit to gain elevated privileges. This aligns with CWE-276, which describes improper privileges for system resources, and specifically relates to CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write conditions in system services.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows local users to execute arbitrary code with Local System privileges, effectively providing complete system compromise. An attacker could replace the legitimate service executable with a malicious binary, or modify the service path to point to a crafted payload, enabling privilege escalation without requiring additional attack vectors. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers privilege escalation through service configuration modifications, and T1543, which addresses persistence mechanisms through service manipulation.
Mitigation strategies should focus on restricting service configuration permissions to only administrative users and groups. The service should be configured with minimal required permissions, ensuring that the Users group has no rights to modify service properties. System administrators should audit service configurations and remove unnecessary permissions from standard user accounts. Additionally, implementing least privilege principles for service accounts and regular security assessments of installed software components can prevent similar vulnerabilities. The recommended approach aligns with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-128 and CIS Controls, which emphasize proper access control and privilege management for system services.