CVE-2015-9264 in Lansweeper
Summary
by MITRE
Lansweeper 4.x through 6.x before 6.0.0.48 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on the administrator's workstation via a crafted Windows service.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/18/2020
CVE-2015-9264 represents a critical remote code execution vulnerability affecting Lansweeper versions 4.x through 6.x prior to 6.0.0.48. This vulnerability resides in the Windows service component of the Lansweeper network inventory and asset management solution, which is widely deployed in enterprise environments for automated system discovery and monitoring. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and privilege escalation mechanisms within the service handling process, creating a pathway for attackers to execute malicious code on administrator workstations where the service is installed.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a crafted Windows service that leverages improper privilege handling during service installation or update processes. When an administrator interacts with the Lansweeper service, either through legitimate administrative functions or through compromised network access, the service fails to properly validate incoming service requests or configuration parameters. This validation gap allows attackers to inject malicious code that executes with the elevated privileges of the administrator account, bypassing standard security controls and access restrictions. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-78 and CWE-20, specifically addressing issues related to command injection and improper input validation within service management components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold on administrator workstations within the enterprise network. Once exploited, attackers can leverage the elevated privileges to access sensitive corporate data, modify system configurations, install additional malware, or establish backdoors for continued access. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it targets the administrative workstation rather than intermediate systems, allowing for direct access to privileged network resources and potentially enabling lateral movement throughout the enterprise infrastructure. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, making it a significant concern for enterprise security operations.
Organizations utilizing Lansweeper versions within the affected range should immediately implement comprehensive mitigation strategies including immediate patch deployment to version 6.0.0.48 or later, which addresses the underlying privilege escalation and input validation issues. Network segmentation and access control measures should be strengthened to limit administrative access to the Lansweeper service components, while monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious service installation or modification activities. Security teams should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of all administrative workstations and implement principle of least privilege configurations to minimize the potential impact should exploitation occur. Additionally, regular security awareness training for administrators regarding the risks of interacting with untrusted service requests and the importance of maintaining current software versions should be emphasized to reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation attempts.