CVE-2019-25288 in WTabletService
Summary
by MITRE • 02/05/2026
Wacom WTabletService 6.6.7-3 contains an unquoted service path vulnerability that allows local attackers to execute malicious code with elevated privileges. Attackers can insert an executable file in the service path to run unauthorized code when the service restarts or the system reboots.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/05/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-25288 resides within Wacom WTabletService version 6.6.7-3, representing a critical security flaw that exploits improper service path configuration. This issue manifests as an unquoted service path vulnerability, a well-documented weakness that occurs when Windows service paths containing spaces are not properly quoted, creating opportunities for privilege escalation attacks. The vulnerability specifically affects the Wacom tablet service component that manages tablet driver functionality and system integration, making it a prime target for local attackers seeking elevated system access.
The technical flaw stems from the service installation process where the executable path for Wacom WTabletService is configured without proper quotation marks around paths containing spaces. When Windows attempts to execute the service, it searches for executables in the specified path and follows a predictable execution order that can be manipulated by attackers. This behavior aligns with CWE-428, which describes weaknesses related to the improper handling of command line arguments, and specifically relates to the broader category of path manipulation vulnerabilities that allow attackers to inject malicious code into legitimate system processes. The vulnerability operates under the principle that Windows services execute with elevated privileges, typically SYSTEM level access, making any successful exploitation directly impactful for system compromise.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability presents significant risk to systems running affected Wacom tablet drivers as it enables local attackers to gain elevated privileges without requiring additional attack vectors. The attack scenario involves placing a malicious executable file in a directory along the service path where the legitimate executable would be located, with the malicious file being executed when the service restarts or the system reboots. This method of exploitation aligns with ATT&CK technique T1036.004, which covers masquerading through legitimate system processes, and T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter execution. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to potential full system compromise, as the malicious code runs with the elevated privileges of the service account, typically SYSTEM level access. Attackers can leverage this privilege escalation to install backdoors, modify system files, establish persistence mechanisms, or extract sensitive data from the compromised system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-25288 should prioritize immediate remediation through official vendor updates and patches that properly quote service paths during installation. Organizations must conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all affected systems running Wacom WTabletService versions prior to 6.6.7-3, as the vulnerability affects various Windows operating systems including windows 7, 8, 8.1, and server versions. System administrators should implement proper service path validation and monitoring to detect unauthorized modifications to service configurations, while also applying the principle of least privilege to reduce the impact of potential exploitation. The mitigation approach should include regular patch management procedures, service path auditing, and monitoring for suspicious executable placements in system directories. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing application whitelisting policies and enhanced endpoint protection measures to prevent unauthorized code execution, particularly in environments where Wacom tablet services are deployed. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure service installation practices and proper path handling in Windows environments, as highlighted by industry standards and best practices for secure system administration.