CVE-2015-7378 in Security
Summary
by MITRE
Panda Security URL Filtering before 4.3.1.9 uses a weak ACL for the "Panda Security URL Filtering" directory and installed files, which allows local users to gain SYSTEM privileges by modifying Panda_URL_Filteringb.exe.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/21/2025
CVE-2015-7378 represents a critical privilege escalation vulnerability in Panda Security URL Filtering software prior to version 4.3.1.9. This vulnerability stems from improper access control list implementation within the software's directory structure and installed files. The flaw specifically affects the Panda Security URL Filtering component where weak access control mechanisms fail to properly restrict file modifications, creating an exploitable condition that allows local attackers to escalate their privileges to SYSTEM level access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a misconfigured access control list that governs the "Panda Security URL Filtering" directory and its associated executable files. The Panda_URL_Filteringb.exe file serves as the primary target for exploitation, as local users can manipulate this binary to gain elevated privileges. This weakness directly maps to CWE-284, which addresses improper access control, and represents a classic example of insufficient privilege separation in security software components. The vulnerability exists because the software fails to implement proper discretionary access control mechanisms that would normally prevent unauthorized modification of critical system components.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to enterprise environments where Panda Security URL Filtering is deployed. Local users who might not have administrative privileges can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM-level permissions, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The impact extends beyond individual system compromise to include potential lateral movement within networks, as attackers could use the elevated privileges to access additional systems or extract sensitive data. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations that rely on Panda Security for web content filtering and network protection, as it undermines the security posture of their entire infrastructure.
The exploitation of CVE-2015-7378 aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers privilege escalation through local exploitation of software vulnerabilities. Attackers typically would need local system access to initiate the exploitation process, making this vulnerability particularly concerning in environments where user access is not strictly controlled. The vulnerability also relates to ATT&CK technique T1547, which covers registry run keys and startup folder modifications, as the exploitation process may involve modifying system startup components to maintain persistence. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as part of their broader threat modeling efforts, particularly in environments where multiple users have access to systems running vulnerable software versions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-7378 primarily involve immediate patching of Panda Security URL Filtering to version 4.3.1.9 or later, which addresses the weak access control implementation. System administrators should also implement additional security controls such as restricting local user access to critical system directories and files, implementing proper file permission controls, and monitoring for unauthorized modifications to security software components. Network segmentation and privilege minimization practices should be enforced to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. Additionally, organizations should conduct regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar access control weaknesses in other security software components and ensure that proper security configurations are maintained throughout their IT infrastructure.