CVE-2018-25359 in System Scheduler Pro
Summary
by MITRE • 05/26/2026
Splinterware System Scheduler Pro 5.12 contains an insecure file permissions vulnerability that allows low-privilege users to escalate privileges by modifying service executable files. Attackers can rename the WService.exe file in the installation directory and replace it with a malicious executable that executes with LocalSystem privileges when the service is triggered.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/26/2026
The vulnerability in Splinterware System Scheduler Pro 5.12 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw that stems from improper file permissions within the application's installation directory. This insecure configuration allows local users with minimal privileges to manipulate core service components and gain elevated system access. The vulnerability specifically affects the WService.exe executable file which operates with LocalSystem privileges when the scheduled service is triggered, creating a significant attack surface for malicious actors seeking to elevate their operational capabilities.
This technical flaw constitutes a classic insecure file permissions vulnerability that directly maps to CWE-732, which describes inadequate permissions on critical system resources. The root cause lies in the application's failure to implement proper access control mechanisms around its service executable files, allowing unauthorized modification of binaries that execute with elevated privileges. The vulnerability operates through a simple yet effective attack vector where an attacker can simply rename the legitimate WService.exe file and replace it with a malicious executable that will execute with the highest system privileges when the scheduled service runs.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass full system compromise capabilities. When an attacker successfully replaces the service executable, they gain the ability to execute arbitrary code with LocalSystem privileges, effectively providing them with complete control over the target system. This includes access to sensitive data, ability to install additional malware, modify system configurations, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal user interaction from the attacker and can be exploited silently without detection.
From a defensive perspective, this vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK framework techniques including privilege escalation through service binary replacement and persistence mechanisms. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including proper file permission controls, regular security audits of installed applications, and monitoring for unauthorized file modifications in system directories. The recommended approach involves setting restrictive permissions on service executable files to prevent modification by non-privileged users, implementing file integrity monitoring solutions, and conducting regular penetration testing to identify similar insecure configurations across the enterprise infrastructure. Additionally, application whitelisting policies and mandatory access controls should be enforced to prevent unauthorized executable modifications regardless of user privileges.