CVE-2021-47886 in Pingzapper
Summary
by MITRE • 01/21/2026
Pingzapper 2.3.1 contains an unquoted service path vulnerability in the PingzapperSvc service that allows local attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code. Attackers can exploit the unquoted path in 'C:\Program Files (x86)\Pingzapper\PZService.exe' to inject malicious executables and escalate privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/22/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-47886 represents a critical security flaw in Pingzapper version 2.3.1 that stems from improper service path configuration. This issue manifests as an unquoted service path vulnerability within the PingzapperSvc service component, creating a significant attack surface that can be exploited by local adversaries. The vulnerability specifically affects the service executable located at 'C:\Program Files (x86)\Pingzapper\PZService.exe' where the path lacks proper quotation marks, allowing for path traversal attacks. According to CWE-16, this corresponds to a weakness in the design of software components where the path specification is not properly quoted, creating opportunities for malicious code injection.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a classic privilege escalation attack vector where an attacker can place a malicious executable in a directory that appears before the intended service path in the Windows search order. Since the service path is not quoted, Windows will search for executables in the following order: C:\Program Files (x86)\Pingzapper\PZService.exe, but if a malicious file named PZService.exe exists in a parent directory such as C:\Program Files (x86)\Pingzapper\, Windows will execute this malicious file instead of the legitimate service executable. This behavior aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers 'Local Privilege Escalation' through the exploitation of service path vulnerabilities, and T1543 which addresses 'Create or Modify System Process' via service installation or modification.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold on the compromised system. Local attackers who can write to the service directory can escalate their privileges from standard user level to SYSTEM level, effectively gaining complete control over the affected system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to exploit and can be automated through various attack frameworks. The service path injection creates a persistent backdoor that survives system reboots, making it a preferred target for attackers seeking long-term access to compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-47886 should focus on immediate service path remediation and broader system hardening measures. The primary fix involves properly quoting the service path to prevent directory traversal attacks, which can be accomplished by modifying the service configuration to use double quotes around the entire path. System administrators should also implement the principle of least privilege by restricting write access to the service installation directory and conducting regular security audits of installed services. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for suspicious service installations can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider deploying Windows Defender Application Control or similar technologies to prevent unauthorized code execution in critical system directories. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper service configuration management and adherence to security best practices as outlined in various cybersecurity frameworks including NIST SP 800-171 and ISO 27001 standards.