CVE-2021-47762 in HTTPDebuggerPro
Summary
by MITRE • 01/15/2026
HTTPDebuggerPro 9.11 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 and gain elevated access to the system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/15/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-47762 represents a critical security flaw in HTTPDebuggerPro version 9.11 that stems from improper service path configuration. This issue manifests as an unquoted service path vulnerability that creates a dangerous attack surface for local adversaries seeking to escalate their privileges within the affected system. The flaw occurs when the service binary path contains spaces and is not properly quoted during installation, creating opportunities for malicious code injection that can result in arbitrary code execution with elevated system privileges. This vulnerability directly aligns with CWE-428, which addresses the improper handling of unquoted service paths in Windows service configurations, and falls under the broader category of privilege escalation vulnerabilities.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the Windows service configuration mechanism where paths containing spaces are not properly quoted, allowing attackers to place malicious executables in directories that are searched before the legitimate service binary. When the service attempts to start, it executes the attacker-controlled binary located in the unquoted path, effectively bypassing normal security controls and gaining elevated privileges. This technique leverages the Windows service startup process and demonstrates how seemingly minor configuration oversights can create significant security risks. The attack vector specifically targets local users who have the ability to modify service configurations or place files in the service path directories, making it particularly dangerous in environments where local privilege escalation is possible.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-47762 extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold within the compromised system. Once executed, the malicious code can establish backdoors, exfiltrate data, or serve as a launching point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of systems running HTTPDebuggerPro 9.11, potentially allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information and system resources. This flaw particularly impacts enterprise environments where HTTPDebuggerPro may be installed on multiple systems, creating a scalable attack surface that can be leveraged for broader network compromise. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation, and T1543, which addresses service creation and modification.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate remediation through proper service path configuration and system hardening measures. Organizations should ensure that all service binary paths are properly quoted during installation to prevent path injection attacks. The recommended approach involves updating HTTPDebuggerPro to the latest version that addresses this specific vulnerability, as vendors typically release patches to fix such configuration issues. System administrators should also implement regular security audits to identify and correct unquoted service paths across all installed software. Additional protective measures include implementing least privilege access controls, monitoring service configuration changes, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments. The remediation process should include verification that service paths are properly quoted and that no malicious binaries exist in the service path directories, ensuring that the system maintains integrity against this specific class of attack.