CVE-2019-25309 in Remote Console Server
Summary
by MITRE • 02/11/2026
Zilab Remote Console Server 3.2.9 contains an unquoted service path vulnerability that allows local attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated system privileges. Attackers can exploit the unquoted binary path in the service configuration to inject malicious executables that will be run with LocalSystem permissions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/11/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-25309 affects Zilab Remote Console Server version 3.2.9 and represents a critical security flaw stemming from an unquoted service path configuration. This issue resides within the Windows service management framework where the service binary path contains spaces but lacks proper quotation marks around the complete path. The flaw allows local attackers to place malicious executables in directories leading up to the target binary, potentially enabling privilege escalation attacks. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-428, which specifically addresses the improper handling of unquoted service paths in Windows environments, making it a well-documented weakness in service configuration management. According to the ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to privilege escalation techniques under the T1068 category, where adversaries leverage service misconfigurations to gain elevated privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the Windows service manager attempts to execute the binary located at the configured path. In the case of Zilab Remote Console Server 3.2.9, the service path configuration contains spaces but lacks proper quotation marks, creating a path traversal opportunity. When the system attempts to resolve the binary path, it will first search for executables in the root directory of the path before proceeding to subdirectories. This creates an opportunity for attackers to place malicious binaries in parent directories with the same name as the service components, effectively hijacking the execution flow. The service runs with LocalSystem privileges, which provides extensive system access including registry modifications, file system access, and privilege escalation capabilities. The attack vector requires local system access and leverages the principle of least privilege violations in service configuration management.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-25309 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to potentially enable full system compromise when combined with other attack techniques. Local attackers who can write to the filesystem can place malicious executables in the service path directories, effectively creating a persistent backdoor with elevated privileges. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where console servers are used for remote system administration, as it provides a pathway for attackers to maintain long-term access to critical infrastructure. The attack can result in complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and lateral movement within the network. Organizations using this software are at risk of unauthorized access to sensitive systems, especially when the console server is deployed in environments with multiple users or shared administrative access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-25309 should focus on proper service path configuration and system hardening practices. The primary fix involves ensuring that all service binary paths are properly quoted in the Windows registry, preventing the path traversal issue that enables the attack. System administrators should immediately update to the latest version of Zilab Remote Console Server where this vulnerability has been patched. Additionally, implementing the principle of least privilege for service accounts, conducting regular security audits of service configurations, and monitoring for unauthorized changes to service paths can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit local access to systems running vulnerable software. Security teams should also consider deploying endpoint detection and response solutions that can monitor for suspicious file creation patterns in service directories and registry modifications related to service configurations. Organizations should perform regular vulnerability assessments to identify other services with similar misconfigurations, as this vulnerability type is commonly found in poorly configured Windows services across various software vendors.