CVE-2017-13674 in ProxyClient
Summary
by MITRE
Symantec ProxyClient 3.4 for Windows is susceptible to a privilege escalation vulnerability. A malicious local Windows user can, under certain circumstances, exploit this vulnerability to escalate their privileges on the system and execute arbitrary code with LocalSystem privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/10/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-13674 affects Symantec ProxyClient 3.4 for Windows, representing a critical privilege escalation flaw that undermines system security boundaries. This vulnerability specifically targets the Windows operating system environment where Symantec ProxyClient is installed, creating a pathway for malicious actors to bypass normal access controls and elevate their privileges to the highest system level. The flaw exists within the client software's handling of system resources and access permissions, allowing unauthorized users to exploit weaknesses in the privilege management mechanisms. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they enable attackers to gain control over critical system functions and potentially compromise the entire computing environment.
The technical implementation of this privilege escalation vulnerability stems from improper access control mechanisms within Symantec ProxyClient 3.4. The flaw likely involves inadequate validation of user permissions or flawed privilege separation between different system components. When a local user executes malicious code through this vulnerability, the system fails to properly enforce security boundaries that should prevent unauthorized privilege elevation. This typically occurs through manipulation of system calls, file access permissions, or service interactions that should normally be restricted to authorized users. The vulnerability's exploitation requires specific conditions to be met, suggesting that it may involve race conditions, improper input validation, or insecure temporary file handling within the client software's operational framework.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-13674 extends far beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with LocalSystem privileges which represent the highest level of access available on a Windows system. With LocalSystem privileges, an attacker can modify system files, install malicious software, access encrypted data, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the compromised environment. This level of access enables full system compromise and can lead to data breaches, system disruption, and lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability's presence in Symantec ProxyClient creates a persistent security risk for organizations that rely on this software for network security operations, as it essentially provides a backdoor for attackers to gain complete control over systems where the software is installed.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patches, disabling unnecessary ProxyClient functionality, and implementing additional access controls to limit local user privileges. System administrators should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of Symantec ProxyClient 3.4 installations and ensure proper patch management protocols are in place. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper privilege management, and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege that should govern all system access controls. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to privilege escalation techniques and could enable further tactical objectives such as persistence, privilege escalation, and defense evasion. Regular security monitoring and access control reviews become essential for organizations to detect potential exploitation attempts and maintain their security posture against similar vulnerabilities that may exist in other security software components.