CVE-2016-20092 in NetDrive
Summary
by MITRE • 06/19/2026
NetDrive 2.6.12 contains an unquoted service path vulnerability in the Netdrive2_Service_Netdrive2 service that allows local users to execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM privileges. Attackers can insert malicious executables in the system root path that will be executed during service startup or system reboot, resulting in privilege escalation.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/19/2026
The vulnerability identified in NetDrive 2.6.12 represents a critical security flaw that stems from improper service path configuration, specifically affecting the Netdrive2_Service_Netdrive2 service component. This issue falls under the category of unquoted service path vulnerabilities which are commonly exploited by attackers to gain elevated privileges within targeted systems. The flaw occurs when the Windows service configuration does not properly quote the service executable path, creating opportunities for malicious code injection during the service startup process.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows local attackers to place malicious executables in directories that are part of the system's search path without requiring explicit quotation marks in the service configuration. When the Netdrive2_Service_Netdrive2 service starts, it traverses the system path to locate its executable file, and if a malicious binary exists in a directory earlier in this path, the service will execute the attacker's code instead of the legitimate NetDrive service binary. This behavior directly violates security principles of least privilege and proper service isolation, as the service operates with SYSTEM privileges, making any successful exploitation result in complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it enables attackers to establish persistent backdoors within the compromised system. The service path vulnerability creates a window of opportunity during system boot or service restart phases when the malicious code can be executed automatically without user interaction. This characteristic aligns with ATT&CK technique T1035 for "Service Execution" and T1068 for "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation", demonstrating how attackers can leverage service misconfigurations to achieve their objectives. The vulnerability particularly affects systems where users have local access and can modify service configurations or place files in system directories.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate service path correction and system hardening measures. The primary remediation involves properly quoting the service executable path in the Windows registry to prevent path traversal attacks, which is a fundamental principle of secure service configuration. Additionally, system administrators should implement proper access controls and privilege separation to limit local user capabilities, ensuring that only authorized personnel can modify service configurations or place files in critical system directories. This vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and adherence to security benchmarks such as those outlined in the Center for Internet Security (CIS) Controls, which emphasize the need for proper service configuration management and privilege control mechanisms. Organizations should also implement monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized service modifications and file placements in system directories. The vulnerability demonstrates how seemingly minor configuration oversights can create significant security risks, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive security testing and adherence to secure coding practices throughout the software development lifecycle.