CVE-2020-37048 in Application Framework Service
Summary
by MITRE • 02/01/2026
Iskysoft Application Framework Service 2.4.3.241 contains an unquoted service path vulnerability that allows local users to potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. Attackers can exploit the unquoted path in the service configuration to inject malicious executables that would be run with the service's high-level system permissions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/02/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-37048 resides within the Iskysoft Application Framework Service version 2.4.3.241, representing a critical security flaw that stems from improper service path configuration. This issue manifests as an unquoted service path vulnerability, which occurs when Windows service configurations fail to properly quote paths containing spaces or special characters. The affected service configuration allows for path traversal attacks by exploiting the lack of proper quotation marks around the executable path, creating a dangerous environment where malicious actors can manipulate the system's execution flow.
This technical flaw directly relates to CWE-428, which describes the weakness of unquoted service paths in Windows environments. The vulnerability operates by allowing local users to place malicious executables in directories that are searched before the legitimate service executable, effectively enabling privilege escalation attacks. When the service starts or restarts, the system resolves the path without proper quoting, causing it to execute the attacker-controlled binary instead of the intended legitimate software. This behavior aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation' and specifically addresses how unquoted service paths can be leveraged to gain elevated system privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides local attackers with a straightforward method to achieve privilege escalation without requiring sophisticated exploitation techniques. Once an attacker identifies the vulnerable service, they can simply place a malicious executable with the same name as the service in a directory that appears earlier in the system's PATH resolution order. This allows them to execute arbitrary code with the elevated privileges of the service account, which typically runs with SYSTEM-level permissions. The attack requires minimal sophistication and can be performed by any local user with basic knowledge of Windows service management and path resolution mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-37048 should focus on immediate service path correction and system hardening measures. The primary fix involves properly quoting the service executable path in the Windows registry, ensuring that all spaces and special characters are enclosed within quotation marks. Security administrators should also implement proper access controls and privilege management to limit local user capabilities. Additional protective measures include regular vulnerability scanning for unquoted service paths, implementing application whitelisting policies, and maintaining current versions of all software components to prevent exploitation. The remediation process should be prioritized as a critical security update, as the vulnerability can be exploited without user interaction and provides immediate access to system-level privileges.