CVE-2024-37391 in ProtonVPN
Summary
by MITRE • 07/22/2024
ProtonVPN before 3.2.10 on Windows mishandles the drive installer path, which should use this: '"' + ExpandConstant('{autopf}\Proton\Drive') + '"' in Setup/setup.iss.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/15/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-37391 affects ProtonVPN versions prior to 3.2.10 on Windows operating systems, specifically concerning the handling of drive installer paths during the installation process. This issue represents a path manipulation flaw that could potentially allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or gain elevated privileges within the targeted system environment. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of the installation path for the Proton Drive component, which is a critical part of the ProtonVPN suite that provides encrypted file storage services.
The technical flaw manifests in the Setup/setup.iss configuration file where the installer path for Proton Drive is constructed without proper escaping or validation of the path components. The correct implementation should utilize the specific format '"' + ExpandConstant('{autopf}\Proton\Drive') + '"' which ensures proper handling of the auto path variable and prevents potential injection attacks or path traversal scenarios. This improper path construction creates an opportunity for malicious actors to manipulate the installation process by exploiting the lack of proper path sanitization and validation mechanisms.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability could enable attackers to execute malicious code with elevated privileges during the installation process. The flaw exists in the Windows installer component that manages the Proton Drive installation, making it particularly dangerous as it occurs during system-level operations when the application is attempting to establish its file structure and registry entries. Attackers could potentially leverage this weakness to install backdoors, modify system files, or escalate privileges to gain unauthorized access to the compromised system. The impact extends beyond simple code execution as it affects the integrity of the entire ProtonVPN installation process and the security assurances provided by the application.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-78 and CWE-74 standards, which address improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands and injection flaws respectively. It also maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Organizations should immediately update to ProtonVPN version 3.2.10 or later to remediate this issue. The recommended mitigation includes verifying the integrity of the installation files, implementing proper access controls on installation directories, and monitoring for unauthorized installation activities. System administrators should also conduct security audits of existing ProtonVPN installations to ensure no compromised systems exist within their network infrastructure.